Surf Live Saving has urged Australians to act vigilantly at the beach this Australia Day long weekend with drownings four times more likely.
Beaches are expected to accommodate massive crowds with the combination of a long weekend, school holidays, and hot temperatures forecast.
Surf lifesavers are reminding people to wear swim in areas moderated by lifeguards, to use lifejackets, check marine forecasts and to avoid alcohol and drugs when around the water.
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A particular caution is directed to men, who continue to be over represented, accounting for 88 per cent of drowning deaths this summer alone.
Adam Weir, Surf Life Saving Australia chief executive said while Australians are reminded all year round about the dangers of the water, this time of year continues to be the riskiest.
“The reality is that people are four times more likely to drown over the Australia Day long weekend than at other times during the year, surf lifesavers are pleading with people to make smart choices when visiting the coast,” he said.
“The end of the school holidays for some States, combined with a public holiday and the hot summer we are experiencing in parts of the country, all make for a busy time on beaches.
“While we know people want to have fun, surf lifesavers want them to make safety a priority.”
For more information on how to stay safe when visiting the beach this summer, or find your nearest patrolled location, visit www.beachsafe.org.au or download the BeachSafe app.