RESPECT THE RIVER
Saving Lives in Australian rivers
When enjoying inland waterways it’s important to be aware of the risks and stay safe. Whether you’re swimming, boating, or even just relaxing on the bank, there are many hidden dangers that you may not be aware of.
Royal Life Saving research reveals that 1,087 people have died from drowning in Australian rivers, creeks and streams in the fifteen years between 1 July 2003 and 30 June 2018. A further estimated 522 people were hospitalised for a non-fatal drowning incident, many with a permanent disability.
Royal Life Saving, with the support of the Federal Government is addressing these tragic statistic by educating the public about inland waterway safety through the “Respect the River” project.
Australia has many beautiful inland waterways including rivers, lakes, dams, lagoons, channels, and creeks, however they can pose safety risks.
The flat, still surface of an inland waterway can give a false sense of security. Currents, undertows or submerged objects – even in seemingly tranquil waterways – can prove to be very dangerous.
It’s important to be aware of the dangers and always take care around water. Remember that water conditions which may have been suitable one day can change hourly with the current.
Inland waterways are not patrolled by lifeguards, and should someone get into trouble, there may be no one there to assist.
Royal Life Saving has a series of information, research, and resources about water safety in a range of inland waterways.
- Currents and fast-flowing water
- Submerged objects such as rocks, and tree branches
- Slippery banks and uneven surfaces
- Changing seasonal patterns and floodwater
- Cold water – water temperatures in rivers, lakes and dams can drop to freezing levels in winter and cause cold water shock if you fall in
- Inland waterways are not patrolled by lifeguards, and should someone get into trouble, there may be no one there to assist.
When enjoying our rivers please follow these safety tips:
- Never swim alone
- Avoid drugs and alcohol around water
- Wear a lifejacket
- Check the current by throwing a leaf into the water to see the speed it travels
- If you are caught in a current, float on your back feet first, and go with the current. Don’t panic
- Check the depth of the water and look for submerged objects by using a stick
- Don’t jump or dive into the water
- Enter water slowly and feet first
- Take care of slippery or uneven surfaces around or in the water
- Actively supervise children around water
- Let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back
- When on a large property, create a “child safe area” to isolate children from water sources
- Take a phone with you
- Learn lifesaving skills
Take Care These Easter Holidays
Royal Life Saving Research Shows that the risk of drowning doubles on public holidays.
With many Australian’s making the most of the extended holiday period, please take care around the water this Easter long weekend. Access inland waterway safety information and resources below.
RESPECT THE RIVER RESOURCES
TOP TEN RIVER DROWNING BLACKSPOTS
Between 1 July 2008 – 30 June 2018
1. Murray River (41 deaths)
=2 Brisbane River, QLD (25 deaths)
=2 Yarra River, VIC (25 deaths)
4. Hawkesbury River, NSW (15 deaths)
5. Murrumbidgee River, NSW (14 deaths)
6. Georges River, NSW (12 deaths)
=7 Nepean River, NSW (10 deaths)
=7 Parramatta River, NSW (10 deaths)
=7 Swan River, WA (10 deaths)
=7 Tweed River, NSW/QLD (10 deaths)
RESPECT THE RIVER IN THE COMMUNITY
The Respect the River Project is working across Australia to prevent drowning and promote safe Aquatic Recreation in Australian Inland Waterways. Royal Life Saving currently has projects operating in all Australian States and Territories.
Key activities in the community include:
- Engaging with local stakeholders to develop drowning prevention strategies
- Delivering swimming and water safety programs in key communities
- Conducting risk assessments of river blackspots and developing a targeted action plan
- Participating in local events to educate the community