Inland Water Safety
While we want people to enjoy the water, it’s important to understand that it can be dangerous. There are a range of perils, from ice cold water to snags from tree branches and strong currents.
Potential risks and hazards
- Sudden changes in conditions
- Fast flowing water and currents
- Water visibility can hide submerged objects like snags, rocks and trees
- Cold water – water temperatures in rivers, lakes and dams can drop to low temperatures and cause cold water shock or hypothermia if you fall in
- Slippery banks and uneven surfaces
- Inland waterways are usually not patrolled by lifeguards
- Can be remote areas without mobile phone reception
- Depth of the water may suddenly change
- Flooding
- Seasonal patterns – going from dry or low water levels to full rivers
How to stay safe in inland waterways
- Check conditions before entering the water
- Enter the water slowly, feet first
- Take care around crumbling riverbeds and slippery dam edges
- Avoid underwater obstacles such as rocks, branches, rubbish
- Take care when walking on unstable or slippery riverbeds
- Avoid crossing flooded waterways
- Avoid alcohol and drugs around water
- Wear a lifejacket when boating or using watercraft
- Always swim with a mate