The study reports Australians are 1.73 times as likely to drown on a public holiday than other days of the year.
And the Murray River has been named at the top of the list for drowning black spots.
‘Respect the River’, a Royal Life Saving initiative supported by the Federal Government, aims to educate the public about the high risks associated with swimming in inland waterways and share advice on how to stay safe in rivers, lakes and dams.
‘‘With many Australians making the most of the extended holiday period, we’re urging everyone to take care around the water this Easter long weekend,’’ Royal Life Saving chief executive Justin Scarr said.
‘‘Always remember that water conditions can change hourly and that the majority of these areas are not patrolled by lifeguards.’’
Alcohol is a significant contributor to public holiday drowning deaths with the risk of drink drowning being twice as high on these occasions.
Men are especially susceptible to a higher risk and are four times more likely to drown than women.
Travellers are among the highest at risk with holidaymakers aiming to get the most out of their long weekends, contributing to the high number of drownings.
Intrastate and interstate visitors are 2.5 times more likely to drown on public holidays than other days of the year. This is primarily due to lack of knowledge and familiarity with the local waterways.
●For more information, visit royallifesaving.com.au/respecttheriver
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