Men 300% more chance of drowning

Posted By: ILSF.org 12th May 2006

“Men should take more care by the water on a public holiday” says a study finding that males are significantly more likely to drown on a public holiday.*

The Royal Life Saving Australia issued a safety warning to men to stay safe when on, in or around the water on public holidays such as Easter.

“Public holidays are often social occasions involving friends, alcohol and the water, and this can prove to be a dangerous combination,” said Richard Franklin, Royal Life Saving National Manager Research & Health Promotion.


“Men should take more care by the water on a public holiday” says a study finding that males are significantly more likely to drown on a public holiday.*

The Royal Life Saving Australia issued a safety warning to men to stay safe when on, in or around the water on public holidays such as Easter.

“Public holidays are often social occasions involving friends, alcohol and the water, and this can prove to be a dangerous combination,” said Richard Franklin, Royal Life Saving National Manager Research & Health Promotion.

“Often people have made plans for public holidays and long weekends such as boating, fishing or watercraft activity, and they will persevere with those plans regardless of weather or safety conditions.”

Last year, 259 Australians drowned in Australian waterways. Of this number, 74% (192) were male.

  • Men 15-54 are 300% more likely to drown on a public holiday than a weekday.
  • Men 25-44 are 250% more likely to drown on a public holiday than a weekday.
  • Men 45-54 are 400% more likely to drown on a public holiday than a weekday.
  • Men 25-52 are 260% more likely to drown on a public holiday than a weekend.

Tips for a water safe public holiday

  • If you drink alcohol, do not get in or on the water. If you couldn’t drive a car, you shouldn’t be in, on or around the water.
  • A boat skipper is responsible for making sure all the passengers stay sober and are wearing lifejackets.
  • Don’t be deceived by the flat appearance of lakes and dams, this can give a false impression of tranquillity, which may hide rips and submerged objects.

(Results based on figures 1992-1998. “Analysis of Drowning in Australia & Pilot Analysis of Near Drowning in NSW.” By NSW Injury Risk Management Research Centre, UNSW, October 27, 2000.)