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Life Saving Victoria (LSV) is reminding those spending time in or around water during March of the risk of accidental entry, highlighting that "even though you might not intend to enter the water, you should always be prepared for the risks".

This comes as statistics uncover that walking or recreating near water has been a key activity preceding drowning in the month of March, with 17% of people fatally drowning in March doing so after walking near water (including on rocks) since year 2000/01.

LSV Manager Research and Evaluation, Dr Hannah Calverley said just because summer is over, this does not mean the risks around water are gone.

Dr Calverley explained “the weather may traditionally start to cool down in Victoria as we mark the start of autumn, but with our late start to summer and the Labour Day long weekend ahead, we know many people will be eager to make the most of recreating in or around the water before winter, and it is imperative to do so safely.

“If you are enjoying a beach or river-side holiday and walking or recreating near rocky outcrops or riverbanks, be aware of unstable rocks or slippery edges, wear gripped shoes so you are less likely to slip, and if you are rock fishing, wear a lifejacket to buy you time to survive if you do accidentally end up in the water.

“In the past decade, accidental entry accounted for 41% of fatal drownings so even if you don’t intend to end up in the water, it is important to be prepared for all possible outcomes.”

With Victorians’ likelihood of drowning increasing by 68% on a public holiday, Dr Calverley said this message is particularly important in the lead up to Labour Day on 13^th March, adding "tragically, 41 people have already drowned since 1st July 2022, which is nine more than the 10-year average.

“This is already 41 families too many, whose lives have been forever changed and we do not want to see that number increase this month.”

Those planning on spending the long weekend by the water are reminded to swim between the red and yellow flags at a patrolled location wherever possible, never swim alone and keep children under constant supervision, wear a lifejacket if boating or fishing and remember to avoid alcohol and drugs while undertaking water-related activities.

Dr Calverley went on to say "it’s these simple decisions that could prove to be life saving for you and your loved ones."

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