Urgent warning ahead of summer after spike in drowning deaths

A record number of people drowned on Australian beaches last year, prompting an urgent warning ahead of summer.

According to Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA), 154 people lost their lives to drowning off the coast of Australia last year.

This is the highest number ever recorded and accounts for 43 percent of all national drowning deaths, according to the report.

SLSA said each incident occurred either outside red and yellow flags, outside patrol times or in areas where there was no patrol.

The report also emphasized that people aged 55 and over are most at risk and account for 55 percent of total drowning deaths.

Meanwhile, 25 percent of those who died due to drowning were people between the ages of 60-69.

SLSA’s National Research Director Dr. Jaz Lawes said they were concerned that this year has seen the country’s highest ever number of drowning deaths recorded.

“Our beach remains a central source of joy and connection for millions of Australian and international visitors, but these statistics show we need to do more to keep our older community members safe when visiting the beach or other coastal environments,” he said.

Lawes urged swimmers to avoid enjoying the coastline alone whenever possible.

“Older adults are at increased risk of drowning when they are alone and have pre-existing medical conditions,” he said.

“No one plans to get us into trouble, and as we get older, we may no longer have the skills we once had to save ourselves. We also know that many drownings happen when people are alone, meaning there is no one to turn to for help. So social connection and regular engagement with others is key to reducing the risk of drowning.”