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Australians aged 45 years and over are being encouraged to consult their doctor before enjoying the health benefits of swimming to prevent drowning deaths involving people with pre-existing conditions. ​ Royal Life Saving New South Wales (NSW) together with the NSW Government has launched a Swim Ready initiative to educate and raise awareness among people aged over 45 years about the link between the use of medication and an increased risk of drowning. Over the past 17 years, 843 people aged 45 years and over lost their lives to drowning in NSW. Of these, 55% involved people with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, mental health and dementia. ​ All medication has possible side effects that can have an impact on exercise. This can put people at higher risk of drowning when participating in aquatic activities. For example, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, headaches, confusion, blurred vision and muscle pain, can all affect a person’s capacity to stay safe in water. Drowning data from 2008/09 to 2017/18 suggests that, for unintentional fatal drownings in older people, an estimated 36% were taking some form of medication or drug. Of these, 65% of drownings involved multiple drugs. “More and more Australians are enjoying the health benefits of swimming later in life. Our Swim Ready initiative highlights our commitment to encouraging active lifestyles while ensuring everyone stays safe while they are in the water.” Michael Ilinsky, Chief Executive Officer, Royal Life Saving NSW. ​ Office of Sport Acting chief executive officer Karen Jones said swimming was a fantastic activity for people of all ages but insisted everyone is Swim Ready. “I encourage everyone to swim in a safe and responsible manner, and enjoy the health benefits that it brings,” Ms Jones said. “Swimming should be done in consideration of any pre-existing health conditions that can create a drowning risk.” ​ As people age, changes occur in the way their bodies process medications, and the benefit/risk profile of a medication can change. ​ Chronic medical conditions are more common in ageing populations which means older people are more likely to be prescribed several medications. Multiple drug interactions can be complex and can increase the incidence of side effects in older individuals, which can increase the risk of drowning in this group. 8 Dec 2020 Royal Life Saving New South Wales launches Swim Ready initiative to keep Australians safe while swim Risk and Safety < Back to News Australians aged 45 years and over are being encouraged to consult their doctor before enjoying the health benefits of swimming to prevent drowning deaths involving people with pre-existing conditions. Royal Life Saving New South Wales (NSW) together with the NSW Government has launched a Swim Ready initiative to educate and raise awareness among people aged over 45 years about the link between the use of medication and an increased risk of drowning. Over the past 17 years, 843 people aged 45 years and over lost their lives to drowning in NSW. Of these, 55% involved people with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, mental health and dementia. All medication has possible side effects that can have an impact on exercise. This can put people at higher risk of drowning when participating in aquatic activities. For example, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, headaches, confusion, blurred vision and muscle pain, can all affect a person’s capacity to stay safe in water. Drowning data from 2008/09 to 2017/18 suggests that, for unintentional fatal drownings in older people, an estimated 36% were taking some form of medication or drug. Of these, 65% of drownings involved multiple drugs. “More and more Australians are enjoying the health benefits of swimming later in life. Our Swim Ready initiative highlights our commitment to encouraging active lifestyles while ensuring everyone stays safe while they are in the water.” Michael Ilinsky, Chief Executive Officer, Royal Life Saving NSW. Office of Sport Acting chief executive officer Karen Jones said swimming was a fantastic activity for people of all ages but insisted everyone is Swim Ready. “I encourage everyone to swim in a safe and responsible manner, and enjoy the health benefits that it brings,” Ms Jones said. “Swimming should be done in consideration of any pre-existing health conditions that can create a drowning risk.” As people age, changes occur in the way their bodies process medications, and the benefit/risk profile of a medication can change. Chronic medical conditions are more common in ageing populations which means older people are more likely to be prescribed several medications. Multiple drug interactions can be complex and can increase the incidence of side effects in older individuals, which can increase the risk of drowning in this group. Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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8c8e0630-78c9-4c41-a685-daa4f63260c1 Swim Safe Swim Sober Royal Life Saving is an international leader in lifesaving education programs. Learn how to save lives in and around a range of aquatic environments Menu > Stage 4 - Lifesaving > Stage 5 - Lifesaving > Stage 4- First Aid Awareness > Stage 5- First Aid Awareness > Swim Safe Swim Sober Swim Safe. Swim Sober is an online course that aims to educate Australian teenagers about the dangers of drinking on or near water, as well as the consumption of alcohol generally. Topics covered include: Impacts and Effects Be the Influence Alcohol Facts Protect Yourself This course is free to all High School Students via the Royal Life Saving NSW ACT TAS Online Learning Portal. Enrol Now

Royal Life Saving is rallying communities to keep each other safe and enjoy the water over the New Year long weekend. With this summer’s national drowning toll at 21, and 11 of those in inland waterways, RLS NSW/ ACT/ TAS General Manager, Drowning Prevention and Education, Craig Roberts,acknowledged that behind these statistics are devastating personal tragedies. “Our hearts go out to those families affected by recent tragedies. We hope they are seeking and receiving the support they need at this time, and we urge people to continue to exercise caution this long weekend. “Socialising in and around the water is part of our summer way of life, and with changed conditions in and around many of our natural waterways this year, it’s particularly important to keep each other safe around the water. “Whether you’re fishing, boating, swimming, paddling or playing on shore, have fun, and stay safe around the water. “There are four simple tips to keeping each other safe. - Know your limits and avoid taking risks - Check the conditions before you head out - Wear a lifejacket when on the water - Supervise children at all times “We encourage our partners – aquatic centres, pools, local councils, community and media organisations – to share safety messages with their communities throughout the summer, particularly over long weekends. 31 Dec 2022 Royal Life Saving urges community to keep each other safe over New Years Weekend News and Media < Back to News Royal Life Saving is rallying communities to keep each other safe and enjoy the water over the New Year long weekend. With this summer’s national drowning toll at 21 , and 11 of those in inland waterways, RLS NSW/ ACT/ TAS General Manager, Drowning Prevention and Education, Craig Roberts,acknowledged that behind these statistics are devastating personal tragedies. “Our hearts go out to those families affected by recent tragedies. We hope they are seeking and receiving the support they need at this time, and we urge people to continue to exercise caution this long weekend. “Socialising in and around the water is part of our summer way of life, and with changed conditions in and around many of our natural waterways this year, it’s particularly important to keep each other safe around the water. “Whether you’re fishing, boating, swimming, paddling or playing on shore, have fun, and stay safe around the water. “There are four simple tips to keeping each other safe. - Know your limits and avoid taking risks - Check the conditions before you head out - Wear a lifejacket when on the water - Supervise children at all times “We encourage our partners – aquatic centres, pools, local councils, community and media organisations – to share safety messages with their communities throughout the summer, particularly over long weekends. Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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Come and join the Waddles family in their adventure to learn more about Water Safety for Pre School Children Become a Partner Menu Become a Partner About Rivers and Creeks About At the Pool About Lakes and Dams Book a School Visit Does your staff need Child Care First Aid? This course covers the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to infants and children in line with first aid guidelines determined by the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority View More.. Royal Life Saving invites you to become a Preschool Water Safety Education Partner and help children 3-5 stay safe. Being a Partner is more than just delivering a Program, it is a mission to work together with Royal Life Saving to prevent drowning, provide water safety education and helps parents do the same. Our partnership program also offers discounts in Child Care First Aid, CPR and the Royal Life Saving Shop. Your Subscription Includes: Access to our Animations / Videos Facilitator Guides Lesson Plans and Interactive Guides Activity Sheets Access to Online Pre School Education Shop Quarterly updates, news and information for Students, Parents and Teachers Customised parent education resources Discounted Training Courses for Teachers Benefits of Partnership Access our Member Recognition scheme and enjoy free nominations to the Awards of Excellence Build credibility by displaying your member badge at your site and on your website, marketing materials and social channels. Get discounts on selected products form the shop and services and programs that Royal Life Saving Offers. Browe, Subscribe and Access the latest Royal Life Saving Programs to implement within your organisation Our new, streamlined portal provides access to all the information, training, and tools necessary to make working with us as simple as possible. Partnering with Royal Life Saving recognises your commitment to aquatic education and provides you association backed by more than 125 years of history and leadership in swimming, water safety and lifesaving education. Our initiatives are well-researched and reviewed regularly to keep it up to date with industry trends and best practice. We keep evolving with new knowledge, techniques and technology, so you can be confident in our service. Pre School Portal $ 0 0$ Access our Pre School Education Program Resources Free Plan Subscribe Now

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More than 60 representatives from the NSW Government, local councils, police and community groups will join Royal Life Saving NSW team members at Fairfield RSL today in a workshop aimed at reducing the number of drownings in Western Sydney. New findings will be revealed by RLS NSW at the workshop, which will show a spike in drowning deaths across the region in the past 12 months. Residents from Sydney’s west and south-western suburbs will be encouraged to provide input into the first-ever Western Sydney Drowning Prevention Plan (WSDPP). Information from the online survey will help build the WSDPP. The workshop will also hear from drowning prevention experts and swim teachers on why Western Sydney needs its own specific plan to combat the rising number of drownings. RLS NSW General Manager, Drowning Prevention and Education, Craig Roberts said: “Unfortunately, Western Sydney has eight of the worst 12 local government areas for drownings. Due to the diversity of these communities, the ongoing growth of the region and the variety of recreational areas, a whole of community approach is needed.” “Royal Life Saving NSW recognises that drowning is a complex problem and that contribution from collaborators and partners is essential to reduce incidents and fatalities.” The survey is live and available to complete here: Western Sydney Drowning Prevention Plan Survey (surveymonkey.com) 24 Aug 2022 RLS NSW urges Western Sydney residents to help build a plan for safer swimming as drownings increase Drowning Prevention < Back to News More than 60 representatives from the NSW Government, local councils, police and community groups will join Royal Life Saving NSW team members at Fairfield RSL today in a workshop aimed at reducing the number of drownings in Western Sydney. New findings will be revealed by RLS NSW at the workshop, which will show a spike in drowning deaths across the region in the past 12 months. Residents from Sydney’s west and south-western suburbs will be encouraged to provide input into the first-ever Western Sydney Drowning Prevention Plan (WSDPP). Information from the online survey will help build the WSDPP. The workshop will also hear from drowning prevention experts and swim teachers on why Western Sydney needs its own specific plan to combat the rising number of drownings. RLS NSW General Manager, Drowning Prevention and Education, Craig Roberts said: “Unfortunately, Western Sydney has eight of the worst 12 local government areas for drownings. Due to the diversity of these communities, the ongoing growth of the region and the variety of recreational areas, a whole of community approach is needed.” “Royal Life Saving NSW recognises that drowning is a complex problem and that contribution from collaborators and partners is essential to reduce incidents and fatalities.” The survey is live and available to complete here: Western Sydney Drowning Prevention Plan Survey (surveymonkey.com) Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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Recent drowning tragedies across Tasmania have highlighted an urgent and sobering reality — more must be done to prevent loss of life in our waterways. Since December, seven lives have been lost to drowning in Tasmania, reinforcing the need for a stronger, more coordinated approach to water safety. Royal Life Saving Tasmania is calling on government, industry, and community groups to work together to implement a “safe systems” approach to drowning prevention — one that recognises that no single solution will prevent drowning, but that collective action can. Every life lost is one too many Royal Life Saving Tasmania CEO Michael Ilinsky said the recent tragedies are a stark reminder of the importance of prevention. “Every life lost to drowning is one too many. These recent tragedies are a reminder that we must continue to strengthen our efforts and work together as a community.” Over the past decade, an average of eight people drown each year in Tasmania, with many of these deaths preventable. While decades of swimming and water safety education have significantly reduced drowning among children, the risk has shifted. Who is most at risk? Current data shows that drowning risk is highest among: Older adults (65+) — 25% of drowning deaths Men — 88% of fatalities People born overseas — 32% This highlights the need for targeted prevention strategies, particularly for adult populations who may not have had the same access to water safety education. A Safe Systems Approach Royal Life Saving Tasmania’s Drowning Prevention Plan (2023) provides a framework for a safer future — bringing together: Government agencies Aquatic and sporting organisations Community groups Education providers The plan aligns with broader state priorities including health, population growth, sport, and environmental management, ensuring drowning prevention is embedded across systems — not treated in isolation. Working together to save lives Drowning prevention is not just the responsibility of individuals — it requires shared responsibility across the entire community. From improving access to swimming and lifesaving skills, to safer aquatic environments and stronger public awareness, every action contributes to saving lives. Looking ahead Royal Life Saving Tasmania will continue progressing this work through collaboration and advocacy, including upcoming engagement with government and stakeholders. In April, the organisation will also mark a significant milestone — 110 years of Royal Life Saving in Tasmania — reflecting on a long-standing commitment to keeping communities safe in, on and around the water. 31 Mar 2026 A Safe System for Water Safety: A Community-Wide Approach to Prevent Drowning in Tasmania News and Media < Back to News Recent drowning tragedies across Tasmania have highlighted an urgent and sobering reality — more must be done to prevent loss of life in our waterways. Since December, seven lives have been lost to drowning in Tasmania, reinforcing the need for a stronger, more coordinated approach to water safety. Royal Life Saving Tasmania is calling on government, industry, and community groups to work together to implement a “safe systems” approach to drowning prevention — one that recognises that no single solution will prevent drowning, but that collective action can. Every life lost is one too many Royal Life Saving Tasmania CEO Michael Ilinsky said the recent tragedies are a stark reminder of the importance of prevention. “Every life lost to drowning is one too many. These recent tragedies are a reminder that we must continue to strengthen our efforts and work together as a community.” Over the past decade, an average of eight people drown each year in Tasmania , with many of these deaths preventable. While decades of swimming and water safety education have significantly reduced drowning among children, the risk has shifted. Who is most at risk? Current data shows that drowning risk is highest among: Older adults (65+) — 25% of drowning deaths Men — 88% of fatalities People born overseas — 32% This highlights the need for targeted prevention strategies , particularly for adult populations who may not have had the same access to water safety education. A Safe Systems Approach Royal Life Saving Tasmania’s Drowning Prevention Plan (2023) provides a framework for a safer future — bringing together: Government agencies Aquatic and sporting organisations Community groups Education providers The plan aligns with broader state priorities including health, population growth, sport, and environmental management , ensuring drowning prevention is embedded across systems — not treated in isolation. Working together to save lives Drowning prevention is not just the responsibility of individuals — it requires shared responsibility across the entire community . From improving access to swimming and lifesaving skills, to safer aquatic environments and stronger public awareness, every action contributes to saving lives. Looking ahead Royal Life Saving Tasmania will continue progressing this work through collaboration and advocacy, including upcoming engagement with government and stakeholders. In April, the organisation will also mark a significant milestone — 110 years of Royal Life Saving in Tasmania — reflecting on a long-standing commitment to keeping communities safe in, on and around the water. Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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