Royal Life Saving urges men to take care around water this long weekend

Heading into the long weekend, Royal Life Saving is urging men to Make the Right Call around the water with their mates and families.

Over the past decade, 2237 males have fatally drowned. On average, 220 fathers, sons, husbands, brothers, friends drown each year. Males continue to be over-represented, making up 82 per cent of all drowning deaths.

Inland waterways pose higher risks for younger men aged 25 to 34 years, with 41 per cent of all drowning in this age group occurring at rivers/creeks and lakes/dams. In comparison, men 35 to 44 years most commonly drown at beaches (26 per cent).

Alcohol is a significant factor for drowning in men. Research shows that 25 to 34 years age group report the highest proportion (34 per cent) of alcohol-related drowning compared to all other age groups.

In response, Royal Life Saving has released it’s Make the Right Call campaign targeting men aged 25 to 45 years, encouraging men to look after their mates to keep each other safe around water, especially when swimming, boating and fishing in rivers and lakes.

Public holiday long weekends are known to be risky times for drowning, with many people travelling to unfamiliar locations, having social gatherings around water, which combined with predicted hot weather can make for a fatal combination.

“We know that young men often overestimate their skills and ability around water, and underestimate the dangers of hazards like currents, water depth and changes in conditions, which can be heightened with alcohol and influence from peers,” says Royal Life Saving Chief Executive Officer Dr Justin Scarr.

The Make the Right safety tips are:

1. Avoid alcohol around water

2. Wear a lifejacket when on the water

3. Avoid going alone around water

Royal Life Saving’s Make the Right Call campaign is supported by the Australian Government.