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When enjoying inland waterways , it ’ s important to be aware of the risks
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 , with the support of the Federal Government is addressing these dangers 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 . https :// www . royallifesaving . com . au / about / campaigns-and-programs / respectthe-river RIVER SAFETY TIPS 1 . Never swim alone It is important to always swim with others . Keep safe by keeping within a close distance to others at all times and ensuring you always keep an eye on those you are swimming with . Notifying those that aren ’ t with you of your planned journey may also help in raising the alarm in an emergency .
2 . Avoid alcohol around water Alcohol often contributes to drownings . It impairs judgement , encourages greater risk taking behavior , reduces coordination , impairs reaction time and reduces the effectiveness of CPR , should someone require it . On average , approximately 25 % of adult drownings deaths each year involve alcohol , with 44 % of these occurring near rivers , creeks and streams . A further 9 % of these occur in lakes , dams and lagoons .
3 . Wear a lifejacket Watercraft related drownings can occur if people do not wear lifejackets , consume alcohol and fall overboard , are not prepared for changing weather conditions , collisions occur or their vessels are not seaworthy . On average , 51 people a year
drown while using watercraft . After oceans and harbours , rivers , creeks and streams are the second most common location for watercraft related drownings to occur with an average of 11 drownings per year .
4 . Learning lifesaving skills Gain the knowledge and skills to administer first aid until medical help arrives . Anyone at any time may need to give urgent assistance and a Royal Life Saving First Aid and / or Resuscitation Course will equip you with the necessary skill
THE HILLS INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS ! ISSUE 102 // DECEMBER 2023 27