LSV Victorian Drowning Report 2023-24

This week, Life Saving Victoria’s annual Drowning Report 2023-24 was released, and it was an important reminder that water safety should be at the forefront of everybody’s minds, particularly as we head into the warmer weather.

The report provides valuable information to help LSV, Play it Safe By The Water partners, of whom BIAV is one, and policymakers to target the underlying factors behind drownings and guide prevention efforts to drive fatality numbers down.

Tragically, this past year, 54 people lost their lives within Victorian waterways. Author of the report, Life Saving Victoria’s Manager of Research and Evaluation, Dr Hannah Calverley said, “ Each one of these numbers represents real people, real communities, real families that are affected by drowning.”

A further 132 people experienced a non-fatal drowning incident and lifesavers successfully conducted a record 849 rescues, which it is estimated prevented 42 drowning fatalities.

Check your plan before you head to the beach…
🚩 "let's go to the beach" - OK, but check the Beachsafe app for a patrolled location.
🌡Check the weather report before you pack the car
🛑 Before you put your gear down, check for signage
🌊 Ready for a dip? Before entering the water, check for rips.

If you're headed to any of Victoria's great pool facilities, remember that parents supervise, lifeguards save lives.

Rescue is a last resort so make sure you're taking personal responsibility to make sure you're safe.

The launch has generated excellent coverage across TV news, radio and print, with numerous mentioned on the day and in the days that followed. Here is the link to the report: Victorian Drowning Report Media