Tragically This Year’s Drowning Toll Is The Highest In More Than 25 Years

More than 90 per cent of the drowning deaths in South Australia this year were men, the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2022 has revealed.

Across the State, 13 people drowned in 2021/22, with almost a third aged between 65- and 74-year-old. 

South Australia’s drowning deaths contributed to the highest drowning toll in Australia in 25 years, prompting water safety experts to issue an urgent plea to make safety a focus this summer.

Royal Life Saving Society – South Australia General Manager - Operations Jake Culkin said the deaths were a tragedy that affected countless families, friends and communities.

“Our hearts go out to all those who are mourning the loss of someone to drowning this year,” Mr Culkin said said.

“Tragically, in almost a quarter of cases, the drowning deaths occurred when people tried to rescue others who had got into trouble in the water.

“We know people who have come from land-locked countries to South Australia are at particular risk of drowning and Royal Life Saving is working closely with those communities to provide water safety training.”

The Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2022 found that there were 339 drowning deaths over the past 12 months, which is 15% higher than last year (295), and the highest reported figure since 1996.

While further research is needed, the findings highlight ongoing impacts of COVID‐19 on drowning risk, including Australians being more likely to visit unfamiliar, unpatrolled water locations, children lacking swimming skills necessary to enjoy the water safely due to pandemic induced lesson cancellations.

Royal Life Saving Society – Australia CEO, Justin Scarr, said he was deeply saddened by the tragic increase in drowning.

“Increased drowning deaths in school aged children is tragic and may be a sign of generational impacts of lessons missed due to COVID‐19,” Mr Scarr said.

“Swimming and water safety lessons are critical to child safety.

“We urge adults of all ages to consider the impacts of medical conditions, alcohol, and swimming ability has on their water safety.”

The Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2022 was released alongside the Surf Life Saving National Coastal Safety Report 2022 in Sydney on Friday 16 September 2022.

 To access the report, click here 2022 National Drowning Report

With the support of the Australian Government, Surf Life Saving and Royal Life Saving are looking at strategies ahead of the warmer months, including bringing forward water safety campaigns, delivering lifesaving services and working with governments, councils and groups across the country.

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN STATISTICS

·       13 drowning deaths

o   This is the same as 2020/21 and a 7% decrease on the 10-year average

·       92% of those who drowned were male

·       The largest number of drowning deaths occurred among people aged 65-74 years (31%)

·       Beaches accounted for 46% of deaths, followed by rivers and creeks (23%)

·       A rescue was the leading activity prior to drowning (23%), followed by swimming and recreating (15%) and boating (15%)