Safe Swimming Series: Safety in Inland Waterways
Safety in Inland Waterways
A quiet river winds past red gums, the surface smooth and still. A natural ledge carved into the bank looks like the perfect 1-metre spot to jump from. It feels inviting — but what you can’t see is often what matters most.
Australia’s inland waterways — rivers, creeks, lakes and dams — are some of our most beautiful places to explore. They’re also consistently our most dangerous locations for drowning.
According to the National Drowning Report 2025, 28% of all drowning deaths in 2024/25 occurred in rivers and creeks, with inland waterways accounting for 34% of all drowning fatalities. This is a 23% increase on the 10-year average and highlights that these environments remain high-risk despite appearing calm.
Risks of Inland Waterways
They are not patrolled
Unlike beaches, inland waterways rarely have lifeguards. If someone gets into trouble, there may be no trained help nearby.
Hidden underwater hazards
Submerged rocks, branches, debris and shifting riverbeds are common. Flooding or recent rainfall can move hazards or create new ones, making familiar spots unpredictable.
Strong currents and sudden drop-offs
The surface may look still, but currents beneath can be fast, uneven or pull unexpectedly. Rivers were again the leading inland drowning location in 2024/25.
If you’re caught in a current, float on your back with your feet pointing downstream.
Falls into water
Unintentional falls are one of the leading causes of drowning in rivers and creeks, especially for young children and older adults. Soft mud, uneven ground and unstable banks can turn a simple slip into a dangerous situation
Cold water
Winter water temperatures in rivers and dams can cause cold-water shock, affecting breathing and movement within seconds.
Weather changes
Storms bring lightning, wind and fast-rising water. Avoid all flooded rivers and never drive through floodwater.
Boats and watercraft
Boating contributed to 9% of drowning deaths in 2024/25, with adults over 65 making up more than half of boating-related fatalities. Wearing a lifejacket remains critical.
Simple Precautions That Save Lives
Tell someone your plans
Share where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
Never swim alone
In unpatrolled environments, it’s vital to have someone who can help or call for assistance.
Children should always be actively supervised, meaning an adult is in the water and within arm’s reach.
Enter feet first
Check depth, temperature and obstacles before fully entering the water.
Don’t dive or jump from heights
Riverbeds shift, and safe spots last summer may now be dangerous.
Follow signage
If an area is marked No Swimming, there’s always a good reason.
Wear a lifejacket
Essential for boating, paddling and for anyone with limited swimming skills.
Avoid alcohol around water
Alcohol was a factor in many inland deaths in previous years and continues to increase risk through impaired judgement, coordination and reduced ability to self-rescue.
Learn CPR
CPR saves lives, and early intervention is often the difference in remote areas where ambulance response may be delayed.
How Surrey Park Swimming Helps Build Safer, More Skilled Swimmers
Royal Life Saving highlights a worrying decline in swimming skills nationally with strong water skills remaining one of the most effective defences against drowning — especially in unpredictable environments like rivers and lakes. At Surrey Park Swimming, we love helping families enjoy the water safely.
Our Learn to Swim programs for children, teens and adults focus on:
- Strong, confident swimming skills
- Personal survival techniques
- Understanding different aquatic environments
- Safe decision-making in and around water
Let us help you build your family’s water confidence and safety. Explore our programs at surreypark.org.au