The NSW Government is partnering with Royal Life Saving NSW to present the Active Adults campaign which encourages participation but also urges older residents to take extra care.
Bankstown MP and Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said with the weather starting to heat up, it’s a good time to focus on how everyone could stay safe in and around water.
“Raising awareness of the dangers for older people, such as watching out for trip and fall hazards near water, is important for making sure everyone can enjoy a day out at the beach,” he said.
Research from Royal Life Saving NSW, shows that in the past 12 months, there were 281 drowning deaths, with 57 per cent adults 45 years and older. Those aged over 65 represented 27 per cent of fatal drownings and there’s been a 43 per cent increase in the past 20 years.
People over 65 are encouraged to follow these five tips to enjoying aquatic recreation:
• Share the fun with someone.
• Wear a lifejacket when on the water.
• Check any medications don’t interfere with your ability to swim.
• Watch your step around water.
• Know your limits and avoid taking risks.
Toolkits and guides are available at drowningprevention.org.au.
Senior drowning rise alert
A FUN day in the water could easily turn to tragedy and with figures showing an increase in drowning deaths among older residents, a new safety campaign is urging seniors to take extra care.
