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Snorkelling and Diving Safety
Snorkelling safety depends on good equipment, a buddy system, and knowing your limits.
Understanding the Context
Snorkelling and diving incidents often involve older adults, poor-fitting equipment, medical events or buddy separation. Many fatalities occur close to shore and without signs of distress. Understanding equipment, staying with a buddy and recognising personal limits significantly reduce risk.
Research and Statistics
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Snorkelling and diving account for around 12–17% of coastal drowning deaths in recent years.
Many snorkelling fatalities involve older adults, often with underlying medical conditions.
Key Hazards
Offshore Winds
Strong offshore winds that push swimmers, inflatables or paddlecraft away from shore.
Snorkel/Dive Gear
Lack of or poor fitting snorkel, mask or dive equipment that leaks or restricts breathing.
Buddy Separation
Lack of or poor buddy systems in snorkelling or diving where partners become separated.
Underestimating Risk
Underestimation of the risk posed by conditions or water environments.
Untrained Tasks
Performing water activities or rescues without the required knowledge or training.
How to Stay Safe
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Tell Someone Your Plans
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
