Community
9 June, 2023
Winter safety warning for boaters
LIFE Saving Victoria (LSV) has this week issued an urgent reminder, warning boaters and fishers of their risk of drowning during the month of June.
Records taken over the past 20 years show that one in five fatal drownings during June have involved people fishing or boating.
Victorians’ drowning risk increases further on the King’s Birthday long weekend, with Victorians 68 per cent more likely to drown on a public holiday than any other day of the year.
LSV manager research and evaluation Dr Hannah Calverley said the colder weather should not stop water safety being front of mind for those spending time in, on or around water this winter.
“With winter getting underway, your risk of death by drowning may be the last thing on your mind, especially if you are fishing or boating and don’t plan on entering the water, however, you can never relax when it comes to water safety,” Dr Calverley said.
“Unintentional entry was a factor in 41 per cent of fatal drownings in the past decade and concerningly, in about four in five boating related drowning deaths during this time, the victims were not wearing a lifejacket, or their lifejacket was ill-fitting or incorrect for the activity or conditions.
“This is why lifejackets are a non-negotiable piece of safety equipment for anyone boating or fishing, to buy you time to survive should you end up in the water.”
Dr Calerley said while motorists wouldn’t hesitate to put on a seatbelt when getting in the car, boaters should think of wearing a lifejacket while on the boat as being equally important.
Safe Transport Victoria manager recreational boating safety Gareth Johnson reminded boaters and fishers to “know the three” and stay safe out on the water this winter.
“Suddenly entering cold water can be life threatening, with the risk of boaters experiencing cold shock and hypothermia,” Mr Johnson said.
“You need to be able to get back on your boat or paddlecraft quickly or be able to call for help straight away.
“Know the three - remember to always wear a lifejacket, carry two waterproof communication devices and know the weather before and during your trip.”
Tragically, since July 1, 2022, 52 people have drowned in Victorian waters.
This is 11 more than the 10-year average and of the 52 fatal drowning incidents, 66 per cent occurred in inland or coastal waterways, and 34 per cent were around the home or within other bodies of water
