Surf Life Saving WA recognises lifesavers ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day

Ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July, Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA) is paying tribute to its lifesavers in recognition of the vital role they play in reducing the number of drowning fatalities at West Australian beaches.

With nearly 1,000 rescues performed by surf lifesavers and lifeguards on WA beaches each year, SLSWA says each one of these rescues could have ended in tragedy were lifesavers not on hand.

“The impact our services have on ensuring that the number of drowning fatalities is not significantly higher cannot be underestimated,” said SLSWA General Manager of Lifesaving Chris Peck.

“World Drowning Prevention Day is not only an opportunity to highlight the impact of drowning, but also the preventative measures that can be put in place to reduce the risk significantly,” he said.

“Living in Australia and enjoying our coastal lifestyle comes with responsibility, but there are measures you can put in place to give you the best chance of not getting into trouble around the water.”

“We strongly recommend that when you go to the beach you should always choose to swim between the red and yellow flags. If there are no flags and you’re not a competent swimmer with experience in the conditions, you shouldn’t go in.”

“Families heading to the beach should ensure children have appropriate swimming and surf survival skills, and adults should have the skills and knowledge to go to their aid if they get into trouble.”

World Drowning Prevention Day is a global initiative held on 25 July each year to raise awareness of the devastating impact of drowning, to promote life-saving prevention strategies, and to remind the public that nearly all drowning deaths are preventable.