Tragic Tides: The Alarming Rise in Drownings During the Holiday Season

Published 22 December 2024

The interval between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day represents the most perilous period of the year for drownings in Australia, with an average of 15 lives claimed each year during this time.

Recent data from Royal Life Saving Australia indicates that last summer, 26 percent of all drowning fatalities transpired between Christmas and New Year, translating to an average of three individuals drowning each day.

“The holiday season is a moment for unwinding, socializing, and festivities, but we recognize this is the most dangerous time to be near water,” stated Royal Life Saving Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Justin Scarr. “Therefore, it is also when we must remain most watchful around water.”

“The risks increase when people are on the move, visiting unfamiliar areas, or celebrating in proximity to water, with risks peaking during public holidays, particularly on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, which consistently show the highest drowning occurrences.”

So far this summer, drownings have risen compared to the previous year, with 16 fatalities reported  up to now, compared to 13 at the same point in 2023. Forecasts of warmer weather during the festive season are anticipated to draw more individuals to the water, thereby amplifying the risk further.

Royal Life Saving research additionally highlights several trends linked to drownings during the holiday season.

• Drowning fatalities take place across all aquatic environments, including beaches, rivers, lakes, and private pools.
• The first day of a journey is often the most precarious, as individuals are not familiar with their surroundings.
• 33 percent of drowning fatalities last year involved incidents where multiple individuals drowned.
• 39 percent of those who drowned during the holiday season were migrants.
• 41 percent of deaths involved individuals who had traveled 50 kilometers or more from their residence to where they drowned, indicating unfamiliarity with water conditions as a significant factor.
• 25 percent of drowning fatalities during this time involved alcohol consumption.

“Afternoon hours are particularly hazardous, as individuals congregate near pools, rivers, beaches, and lakes, therefore, this Christmas, we are encouraging everyone to implement simple yet crucial precautions around water.

“Don’t overrate your swimming skills, keep an eye on children, refrain from alcohol around water, check the weather forecast and be ready to modify your plans, and always wear a life jacket while boating or fishing,” Dr. Scarr advised.

As summer progresses, Royal Life Saving is reminding everyone to prioritize safety during the festive period to avoid further loss of life.

Regardless of your age, background, or swimming proficiency, before venturing out this summer, learn how to safely enjoy the water:

• Don’t overrate your swimming skills.
• Determine who will be supervising children around water.
• Avoid alcohol while swimming, boating, or supervising others.
• Check the weather forecast and be ready to modify your plans.
• Always wear a life jacket when boating, fishing, or kayaking.
• Never go alone. Always plan to swim, boat, paddle, or fish with a companion.
• Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags.

Drowning prevention begins with you. Prepare before departing from home.

For further details on water safety tips, visit www.royallifesaving.com.au/summerwatersafety