Central Victorians are being urged to be vigilant with young children around pools and inland waterways this summer after a new report revealed those aged 0-4 continue to be at risk of drowning or close calls.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett released the 2014-15 Drowning Report at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre at the launch of Water Safety Week yesterday at which the government announced a crack down on sellers of dodgy flotation devices via random spot checks.
The report showed that in 2014-15, four children aged 0-4 died from drowning – up on the 10-year average – and there were at least another 20 near drownings.
Most of these drownings occur around the home – in bathtubs, spas and private swimming pools.
Overall, the number of drowning deaths decreased from 47 in 2013-14 to 39 in 2014-15.
The majority of these drownings occurred in coastal waterways (49 per cent), followed by inland waterways (31 per cent).
The report also found that men are at greatest risk of drowning, particularly those aged between 15 and 64 years. Of the 39 deaths in 2014-15, 35 were men. Alcohol and risky behaviour were major contributing factors.
Ms Garrett said the report was a tragic reminder to stay safe around the water this summer.
“The loss of a loved one through drowning is a tragedy. With summer on our doorstep, we want to make sure everyone stays safe around the water,”the minister said.
“Always supervise children around water and make sure home pools are properly fenced. Everyone can play a role in ensuring our kids are safe around the water.
Over summer Consumer Affairs Victoria will be inspecting traders selling dangerous and potentially deadly inflatable pools or swimming toys, the minister said.
Banned products will be seized on sight and companies could face fines of up to $1.1 million.
In December 2014, Consumer Affairs Victoria removed more than 22,000 portable pools from sale because they failed to show proper warnings.