Australia Calling 000

In Australia the emergency services contact number is 000.

The operator will ask you police, fire or ambulance

You will need to reply with the required service and the state you are in. EG. Ambulance NSW

The next operator will ask you what's the emergency and the nearest cross street.

When you call emergency services you will need to know where you are. Accurate information can save precious minutes. If you have a smart phone and have location services or maps this can help. Look for the nearest cross street. If not, look around for any landmarks or signs – for example bridges, buildings or car parks or street signs.

Don't hang up – stay on the line but try and continue to monitor and help the person in distress if appropriate. The operator will try to give you the appropriate guidance.

Statistics

In 2024 there were 323 deaths through drowning 70% of those deaths were adults over 30 years old.

In the 2024-2025 summer in Australia, 104 people died from drowning, a 5% increase compared to the previous summer and a 14% increase compared to the 5-year average

NSW has the highest rate of drownings in Australia almost double the rates of QLD and VIC and triple the rates of Western Australia.

During the Easter long Weekend 2025 six people died from drownings. Over the weekend there was 163 marine rescues.

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and other agencies have also been involved in the Mid North Coast flood rescue efforts, with the SES reporting over 500 rescues since the flooding began.

Alcohol and Drugs

Alcohol is a contributing factor to many water safety incidents and should be avoided especially if swimming or going into the water.

Children

When in the water constant supervision is required if the child is under 5 years old an adult should remain in the water with the child at arms length. Children 6 to 10 or weak swimmers, an adult should be close, be prepared and maintain constant visual contact. With children over 11 the adult should maintain constant visual contact.

The above information comes from the Royal Life Saving Website Keep Watch program it is intended for public pools but is relevant for private pools as well for more information. Refer to https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/Aquatic-Risk-and-Guidelines/safety-programs/child-supervision/keep-watch-at-public-pools

Swimming Pools

Swimming pools present various dangers, both in the water and around the pool area.

Dangers Around the Pool Area:

• Slip and Fall Injuries:

  Wet and slippery surfaces around the pool can lead to falls and injuries. 

• Electrical Hazards:

  Electrical equipment, like lights or pumps, can pose a risk if not properly installed or maintained. 

• Chemical Exposure:

  Pool chemicals, such as chlorine and pool shock, can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory problems if inhaled or ingested. 

• Entrapment Hazards:

  Children can get trapped in pool drains, or in small spaces like under ladders or diving boards. 

• Diving Hazards:

  Diving into shallow water can cause serious injuries, especially spinal injuries. 

• Insufficient Supervision:

  Lack of supervision for children, especially in public pools, increases the risk of drowning. 

Specific Dangers for Children:

• Curiosity and Unawareness: Young children are naturally drawn to water but may not understand the associated dangers.

• Accidental Access: Children can gain access to pools through broken fences or open gates.

• Pool Toys: Pool toys can attract children and lead them to try to reach them from a fence or gate. 

Recommendations for Safety:

• Constant Supervision: Always supervise children around pools, especially at public pools. 

• Safe Diving Practices: Only dive into areas with adequate depth and clear visibility. 

• Secure Pool Fencing: Ensure pool fences are in good repair and gates are properly locked. 

• Check Pool Drains and Suction Covers: Ensure they are compliant with safety standards and regularly check for damage. 

• Be Aware of Current Conditions: Be aware of potential hazards like strong currents or waves in coastal areas.

Beach

Australian beaches, while beautiful, present various dangers to swimmers and beachgoers.

Specific Dangers:

• Rip Currents:

  These strong, narrow seaward currents can quickly pull swimmers out to sea.

• Waves:

  Big and unpredictable waves can cause injuries.

• Jellyfish Stings:

  Bluebottles and other jellyfish can cause painful stings, particularly in summer.

• Sharks:

  While shark attacks are rare, they do occur, and it's important to be aware of shark activity, especially near drop-offs and between sandbars. 

• Sunburn and Dehydration:

  Australia's strong sun can cause severe sunburn and dehydration, so it's crucial to wear sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated,

• Other Hazards:

  Shallow sandbanks, submerged objects, and the presence of other people and watercraft can also pose risks.

Staying Safe:

• Learn to Spot Rip Currents: Rip currents often appear as darker, choppier water. 

• Swim at Patrolled Beaches: Beaches with lifeguards are typically safer. 

• Wear Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade. 

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during hot weather. 

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to wave patterns, currents, and other potential hazards. 

• Never Swim Alone: It's always best to have a buddy when swimming in the ocean. 

Important Note: While many Australian beaches have safety measures in place, it's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to stay safe. 

Rivers and Creeks

Australian rivers present several dangers. 

Natural Hazards:

• Strong Currents and Fast-Flowing Water:

  Rivers can have unpredictable and powerful currents, especially during or after heavy rain. 

• Submerged Objects:

  Tree branches, rocks, snags, and other debris can be hidden beneath the surface, posing a risk to swimmers and boaters. 

• Slippery Banks and Uneven Surfaces:

  River banks can be slippery, especially after rain, and may have uneven terrain, making it dangerous to walk along them. 

• Seasonal Changes and Flooding:

  River levels can fluctuate dramatically due to seasonal patterns and rainfall, potentially leading to sudden floods. 

• Cold Water:

  Water temperatures in rivers can drop to freezing levels, particularly in winter, causing cold water shock if someone falls in. 

Human Factors:

• Risk-Taking Behavior:

  Factors like alcohol consumption, swimming alone, and poor decision-making can increase the likelihood of accidents. 

• Geographic Remoteness:

  Many rivers are in remote areas, making it difficult to reach help quickly if someone gets into trouble. 

• Poor Visibility:

  Murky water can make it difficult to see submerged hazards, and the depth of the water may suddenly change. 

Drowning Statistics:

• Inland waterways, including rivers and lakes, are the leading location for drowning deaths in Australia. 

• Male individuals and those aged 18-45 are more likely to drown in rivers and lakes. 

Safety Tips:

• Always wear a lifejacket: when in or near water.

• Be aware of your surroundings, including the depth of the water, current, and submerged objects.

• Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs .

• Avoid swimming alone .

• If you see someone in trouble, call for help immediately .

• Respect the river and be aware of its changing conditions

Dams and Lakes

Dams and lakes pose several dangers. These environments can have deceptive currents, hidden submerged objects, and sudden changes in water levels, making them risky for swimming and other water activities. 

• Drowning:

  Rapidly flowing currents, hidden obstacles, and unpredictable water levels can increase the risk of drowning. 

• Hypothermia:

  Cold water can cause rapid and serious temperature drop, especially in winter, leading to cold water shock and hypothermia.

• Submerged Objects:

  Rocks, branches, and other debris can be hidden beneath the surface, making it difficult to swim or navigate safely. 

• Changing Water Levels:

  Dams can release water suddenly, causing rapid increases in water levels, which can be dangerous for those in or near the water. 

• Geographical Isolation:

  Many dams and lakes are in remote areas, making it difficult to find help if someone gets into trouble. 

• Other Dangers:

  Slippery or crumbling banks, steep drop-offs, and strong winds can also increase the risk of accidents and injuries. 

Floods and Extreme Weather Events

Flood waters are extremely unpredictable, currents can be very strong and may be pushing debris picked up by the water as it is travelling. Never enter flood waters in a car even shallow water can cause a car to float or lose traction.

If You Find Yourself in a Flood:

• Do not attempt to drive through the water. Turn your vehicle off and seek higher ground. 

• If your car becomes submerged, try to lower a window (if possible) or use something to break a window to escape

• Once you are out of the car, move to higher ground and contact emergency services. 

Never, ever enter the water to try to save someone in flood waters. This usually ends up adding to the problem.

If you go into the water you are more likely to get into difficulty which will leave you unable to help even if you are a strong swimmer.

Can the person help themselves? Shout to them 'Swim to me'. The water can be disorientating. This can give them focus. Keep any instructions short clear and loud. Don't shout instructions using different words each time.

Look around for any lifesaving equipment. Depending on where you are there might be a rope or an esky lid – use them anything that floats may be enough to make a difference. If someone is attached to a rope make sure you have secured or are holding the end of the rope so you can pull them in.

If there is no lifesaving equipment look at what else you can use. There may be something that can help them stay afloat – even an item such as a ball can help.

If you manage to get the person out of the water they will always need medical attention – even if they seem fine, drowning can occur at a later stage if water has already entered the lungs.

Boating and water recreational vehicles

Boating can be dangerous due to many factors. Drowning is a major risk, especially if life jackets are not worn or people fall overboard. Other hazards include poor weather, inadequate vessel maintenance, and being unfamiliar with the boat or water conditions. 

Here's a more detailed look at the dangers:

Drowning:

• This is the most significant risk, particularly if people fall overboard or a boat capsizes. 

• Not wearing a life jacket or a properly fitted one increases the risk of drowning. 

Other Hazards:

• Alcohol and drug use:

  Operating a boat under the influence impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents. 

• Speeding:

  Excessive speed makes it harder to maneuver the boat, increasing the risk of collisions with other vessels or obstacles. 

• Collisions:

  Collisions with other boats or objects are a common cause of injury and fatalities. 

• Equipment failure:

  Problems with engines, steering, or other equipment can lead to accidents. 

• Poor weather:

  Sudden changes in weather can make it difficult to control a boat and increase the risk of capsizing or falling overboard. 

• Inadequate vessel maintenance:

  A boat that is not properly maintained is more likely to break down or be unsafe. 

• Overcrowding:

  Overloading a vessel can make it unstable and dangerous. 

• Inexperience:

  Boaters who are unfamiliar with the boat or water conditions are more likely to make mistakes. 

• Submerged objects:

  Rocks, snags, and other submerged objects can cause accidents. 

• Strong currents:

  Powerful currents can make it difficult to navigate and can cause a boat to capsize. 

• Electrocution:

  Stray electrical currents from dock wiring or a boat's electrical system can energize the water. 

• Carbon monoxide poisoning:

  Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas produced by boat engines and can be dangerous if not properly ventilated. 

• Propeller strikes:

  People in the water around a boat are at risk of being struck by the propeller, especially if the boat is not being used safely. 

Water skiing

Specific Dangers:

• Injuries from Falls:

  Falls while water skiing can result in various injuries, including sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations. 

• Collisions:

  Collisions with other boats, floating debris, or underwater hazards can cause serious injuries. 

• Entanglement:

  Becoming entangled in the tow rope can lead to rope burns, cuts, or even more severe injuries if the rope gets caught on a limb or body part. 

• "Water Skiing Douche":

  This unique injury, common in beginners, involves forceful water entering body orifices, potentially causing pain, infection, or even more severe complications. 

• Repetitive Strain:

  The repetitive movements and twisting motions involved in water skiing can lead to back injuries, such as muscle strains, spasms, or herniated discs. 

• Tendon Injuries:

  The handles and ropes used in water skiing can cause tendon injuries, especially in the shoulders and arms. 

• Ruptured Sinusitis & Eardrums:

  Falls into the water can potentially cause ruptured sinus membranes and eardrums. 

Safety Measures:

• Proper Gear: Always wear a life jacket or PFD. 

• Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and other water users. 

• Safe Speed: Operate boats at safe speeds and follow designated speed limits. 

• Spotter: Have someone on the boat watch the skier at all times. 

• Hand Signals: Learn and use hand signals to communicate with the boat operator. 

• Avoid Drugs and Alcohol: Do not use drugs or alcohol while operating a boat or water skiing. 

Land based Fishing

Rock fishing is considered one of the most dangerous sports in Australia. Before a fishing trip look at the weather and water conditions and check the tide charts.

Waves are unpredictable the power of the water is often underestimated and have often knocked anglers off their feet potentially washing them into the water. Tidal changes means water conditions are constantly changing meaning that a rock that appears to be high and out of the water can be almost submerged in a matter of hours preventing an angler from returning to safety potentially stranding them. Rocks are often wet and slippery from plants and algae which continually get sprayed with water droplets. Even if you do not go into the water there is always a chance of injuries including lacerations, sprains and even fractures if you fall.

Safety gear can reduce the risks but if weather conditions are adverse and if it looks dangerous do not take any risks. Safety gear includes a life jacket and non slip shoes are essential (be aware that different rock surfaces have different properties and cleats may be suitable on one surface but not on another) Never turn your back on the water and know your limits. Because of the remote locations, never fish alone. Have an exit strategy, plan for the worst if you go into the water what is the best option for you to get out and be aware in the case of an incident help will most likely not be immediately available

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Snorkeling and scuba diving, while exciting activities, come with potential risks. 

• Uncontrolled Buoyancy: Difficulties with buoyancy control can lead to sinking or difficulty surfacing. 

• Currents: Strong currents can make it difficult to navigate or return to shore. 

• Entanglement Hazards: Snorkeling and scuba diving in areas with debris or fishing gear can lead to entanglements. 

• Panic: This can lead to irrational behavior and accidents. 

• Inexperience: Lack of training and experience can increase the risk of accidents. 

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of complications. 

• Diving fatigue: Be aware of your physical limits and take breaks as needed. 

• Contact with boats or other hard surfaces: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid collisions with boats or other objects. 

• Hyperventilation: Over-breathing can lead to a hypoxic blackout, especially in snorkelers. 

• Dehydration and Exhaustion: Staying hydrated and taking breaks is crucial for both activities. 

• Marine Life: potential dangers from marine life, include poisonous species. 

• Hypothermia: Being in cold water for extended periods can lead to hypothermia

• Equipment Malfunctions: Problems with equipment can be life-threatening. 

• Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause sunburn. 

Scuba Diving Risks:

• Decompression Sickness (DCS): This condition occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream during rapid ascent. 

• Nitrogen Narcosis: This condition can impair judgment and coordination at deeper depths. 

• Oxygen Toxicity: Breathing high levels of oxygen under pressure can cause seizures and other severe symptoms. 

• Arterial Air Embolism: This occurs when air enters the bloodstream during a dive, often due to overinflation of the lungs. 

• Barotrauma: Damage to the body's tissues due to pressure changes, affecting the ears, sinuses, and other areas. 

Private Swimming Lessons

Advantages of one on one lessons.

Personalised learning - recognising each student is unique in strengths, weaknesses identifying potential water related trauma or fears and tailoring the lesson specifically to develop confidence in water at a pace the student is comfortable with through positive encouragement and understanding according to their needs.

Individual Pace - One-on-one teaching allows for a personalized pace, ensuring that the student does not feel rushed and is competent before moving forward. This tailored approach promotes a solid foundation, laying the groundwork for more advanced learning.

Immediate feedback - Feedback is crucial for student growth, and one-on-one teaching facilitates immediate and targeted feedback. Teachers can identify misconceptions or areas of struggle promptly, addressing them in real-time. This instant feedback loop accelerates the learning process and helps students build confidence in the water and their own abilities.

Enhanced focus and attention - Lessons can be adapted to the student's level of confidence and ability, ensuring that the learning environment is conducive to their optimal progression.

Flexibility and adaptability - Individualized attention and targeted feedback contribute significantly to building a students water confidence. In a one-on-one setting, students are more likely to engage actively, allowing the student ask questions and follow instructions.