Police and SES have warned people to stay safe around rivers, lakes and dams as crowds flock to the water across the region.
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Their comments come after five drownings in three days nationwide, including one at Mackenzie Falls near Stawell on Wednesday.
Bendigo police officer Mark Smeaton said central Victorians loved being around the water.
“That’s what we do. But please, turn your mind to safety,” he said.
As yet, the Marong SES has not been called to any water incidents, which media and PR team leader Robin Neller said were most common during storm events.
“Summer is our storm season and when there is flash flooding we can have callouts because of people playing, walking or driving through flood water,” she said.
There were also dangers when the weather was sunny.
Related: Jet ski danger at Lake Eppalock
“During this festive time of year many celebrate a little hard before they get in the water. Obviously, though, alcohol and water do not mix,” Ms Neller said
Acting Sergeant Smeaton said people needed to look out for their mates when they had been drinking.
He cited statistics showing 20 per cent of Victorian drowning deaths last year involved alcohol.
“Men are four times more likely to drown than women,” Acting Sergeant Smeaton said.
He urged people to wear lifejackets when in boats or other vessels, saying even experienced swimmers could get into trouble.
“It’s just about proper preparation to reduce your risk of drowning,” Acting Sergeant Smeaton said.
“Noone ever takes part in these activities thinking anything is going to happen. That’s why they do”
Ms Neller warned people swimming in inland waterways to be mindful of debris under the surface and not dive in.
“Be sensible around water and keep an eye on children,” she said.
Acting Sergeant Smeaton said many fatal drownings were happening in backyard swimming pools, dams and bathtubs.
“Often it’s down to lack of supervision in combination with inadequate safety barriers,” he said.
Rivers, creeks and streams remain leading locations for deaths in Australia, according to Royal Life Saving Australia’s 2018 national drowning report.
There were 61 deaths in rivers, creeks or streams in 2017/18, followed by 46 at beaches, 40 in oceans and harbours and 33 in swimming pools.
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Tom O'Callaghan
I grew up in Bendigo and I want to tell your stories.
I grew up in Bendigo and I want to tell your stories.
