The week between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day is the deadliest time to be in and on the water, Royal Life Saving Australia warned earlier this week.
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“The dangers are heightened when people travel, visit unfamiliar locations or celebrate near water,” chief executive Justin Scarr said.
Last summer, 26 per cent of all drowning deaths nationally occurred between Christmas and New Year – an average of three people drowned per day.
The danger is greatest on public holidays, with the highest drowning rates consistently recorded on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
“The festive season is a time for relaxing, social gatherings and celebrations, but we know this is the riskiest time to be around water,” Scarr said.
Beachgoers cool down on Port Melbourne Beach on Boxing Day.Credit: Eddie Jim
“So, it’s also when we need to stay most vigilant around water.”
Summer drownings are up this season compared to 2023 when 13 deaths were recorded in the first 20 days of the season.
With AAP
