Surf lifesavers warn of another deadly summer after two drown on Christmas Day

Australians are being urged to be safe in the water this week, as the country enters the most dangerous time of the year for fatal drownings.

The Royal Life Saving Society said they do not want to see this summer become a repeat of last year, when 145 people drowned, making it the worst summer in more than 20 years.

Spokesman RJ Houston said the week between Christmas and new year is often the deadliest period for drowning deaths, and the summer heatwave may make matters worse.

Of the 11 deaths, 10 have been males, just over half were people aged over 18, and alcohol was a factor in one in four cases, Houston said.

He added that children may be at increased risk this year because they have missed several years of swimming lessons and regular beach outings due to the pandemic.

He added that swimmers should also avoid alcohol around the water, and be wary of changes to inland waterways due to flooding. Wearing a lifejacket was also essential if you are boating or fishing.

In some parts of the country, lifeguards are reporting a busier than usual start to summer. Life Saving Victoria said they performed 102 rescues at patrolled beaches this month, compared to 30 rescues during the same period in 2021.