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Drownings in Lakes and Dams
Lakes and dams contain hidden hazards, deep water and remote conditions.
Understanding the Context
Lakes and dams often have deep water, steep or unstable banks, submerged hazards and sudden depth changes. Water visibility is poor, making it difficult to see drop-offs or underwater objects. These environments are often unpatrolled and remote, meaning help is far away in an emergency.
Research and Statistics
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An average of 77 people drown each year in rivers, creeks, lakes and dams.
Lakes and dams account for around 7–11% of drowning deaths in Australia each year.
Around 90% of drowning deaths in lakes and dams are male.
In some years, 61 people drowned in lakes and dams alone.
Key Hazards
Sudden Drop-Offs
Deep water or sudden underwater drop-offs where the bottom disappears without warning.
Cold Environments
Cold water, snow or ice that causes cold shock, rapid breathing changes or loss of muscle control.
Unstable Surfaces
Slippery, uneven or unstable surfaces such as rocks, decks or riverbanks that cause unexpected falls.
Submerged Objects
Sharp, hidden or submerged items such as rocks, logs or debris not visible from the surface.
Lighting
Lack of or poor lighting conditions that prevent hazards or swimmers being clearly seen.
Inflatable Toys
Lightweight inflatable toys that drift into deeper or unsafe water due to wind or currents.
Steep or Eroding Banks
Steep, unstable or eroding river or dam edges that collapse underfoot.
Hidden Depth Changes
Depth variations that are sudden or not marked, creating unexpected deep-water areas.
Remote Locations
Lack of or poor access to emergency help due to remote or isolated water locations.
Underestimating Risk
Underestimation of the risk posed by conditions or water environments.
Parental Supervision
Lack of or poor parental supervision of children in or near water.
Rescue Equipment
Lack of or poor rescue equipment such as throw ropes, reach poles or flotation aids.
Signage
Lack of or poor signage that fails to indicate hazards, depth or rules.
How to Stay Safe
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Avoid Swimming at Night
Avoid swimming at night when visibility and rescue options are limited.
Stay Close to Shore
Stay close to shore when paddling and avoid offshore winds or strong currents.
Avoid Diving into Unknown Water
Avoid diving or jumping into rivers, lakes or dams where depth is unknown.
Choose Safe Entry Points
Choose safe entry points and enter water slowly and feet-first.
Know Your Limits
Know your swimming ability and stay within your depth and comfort.
Check the Conditions
Check the weather, water movement, waves, water depth, and wind conditions before entering the water.
Provide Adult Supervision
Always provide constant, close, active adult supervision within arm’s reach around any water.
