A HORROR drowning toll across the state has prompted a warning from police with hot temperatures set to continue in Bathurst and NSW.
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Eight people have lost their lives by drowning in the state’s waterways since Christmas Day, four on Boxing Day alone.
All but one of the victims were male.
NSW Police Marine Area Commander Superintendent Mark Hutchings said the key to water safety is assessing the environment and taking simple precautions.
“Unfortunately, we find that many drownings and near-drownings could have been prevented by heeding safety messages from police, lifesavers and maritime authorities,” he said.
“It is also important to know your own capabilities, and if you’ve been drinking, you’re not going swimming, alcohol and water don’t mix.”
Bathurst Aquatic Centre duty manager Correy Ross said up to 1000 people a day have been coming to the pool for a swim and their safety is of top priority.
“We’ve been pretty busy because of the heat and the holidays,” he said.
The centre has lifeguards stationed at the outdoor 50 metre pool as well as inside in all aquatic areas, Mr Ross said.
“We’ve also got our Keep Watch program for parents with children under five that they have to be within arms reach of their child,” he said.
Last financial year, 280 people drowned in Australian waterways with NSW recording the highest number of drowning deaths with 96 (34 per cent).
Of those who drowned, 83 per cent were male.
Unfortunately, we find that many drownings and near-drownings could have been prevented by heeding safety messages.
- NSW Police Marine Area Commander Superintendent Mark Hutchings
Superintendent Hutchings urged people to use commonsense when in and around any waterway.
“Whether you’re going to the beach, a river, lake or swimming pool, it’s important to know the conditions and possible hazards in the area,” he said.
“The appearance of many waterways can be deceiving, whether it is depth, current, temperature or submerged objects, so it’s important to check before you get in, or you might be caught out.”
Supt Hutchings said anyone who is the skipper of a vessel is responsible for ensuring it is safe to go out on the waterway and that all the required safety equipment is on board.
Tips for keeping safe at near the water:
- Always swim between the red and yellow flags at the beach
- Read and observe safety signs
- Ask a lifesaver/lifeguard for safety advice
- Always swim with someone else and look out for each other
- Always supervise children around the water
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Learn how to identify a rip at the beach
- If you need help, stay calm and attract attention
- Always wear a lifejacket while boating or rock-fishing
- If witnessing an in-water emergency, call triple-0