Life Saving Victoria calls for vigilance over Easter

With data revealing that Victorians are 68% more likely to drown on a public holiday than any other day of the year, Life Saving Victoria is calling for the pubic to remain vigilant in, on and around the water this Easter.

Following Victoria having experienced its highest drowning toll in the four days following Christmas Day in 18 years, LSV general manager Paul Shannon urged people to not let festivities become fatalities.

Shannon notes “Easter is traditionally a time families enjoy the last of the autumn weather before the long Victorian winter, but it is imperative they do so safely.

“Whether you’re celebrating at home, on the coast or by the river, remember to actively supervise little ones.

“Even if you don’t intend for your child to end up in the water, children are curious, so if they wander off from your Easter egg hunt or campsite, it takes just 20 seconds for a child to drown in as little as a few centimetres of water.”

Shannon also reminded adults of their own risk of accidental entry into water, which has accounted for 41% of drownings in the past decade.

“If you are walking by the water, be careful of unstable rocks or slippery edges and if you are boating or fishing, wear a lifejacket to buy you time to survive. Once you end up in the water, it is too late to put it on.

“For those heading to the coast, many of our volunteer lifesavers and lifeguards are still on duty to keep you safe, so head to beachsafe.org.au to find a patrolled location near you, enabling you to relax by the water with piece of mind that someone is keeping an eye on you and your family.

“However, even when lifesavers are around - your safety is your responsibility and rescue is the last line of defence and one we would rather not have to use, so know and stick to your limits and assess your abilities and the potential risks before you go swimming.”

Victorians are also urged to not mix water related activities with alcohol or other drugs, which have been a known factor in 31% of drownings in the past decade.

Shannon warned “Alcohol and other drugs impair judgement, slow your reaction times, affect your swimming ability and increase risk-taking behaviour.

“If you plan on drinking this Easter, please postpone doing so until you have completed all water-related activities.”