Here's a shocking statistic - this summer, somebody has died from drowning almost every day in Australia.
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And Royal Life Saving data - in the lead up to Australia Day - reveals people are twice as likely to drown on a public holiday when they are drunk.
Over a third (37 per cent) of all drowning deaths on public holidays now involve alcohol.
Moreover, Royal Life Saving bluntly warns that men are hugely over-represented in the drowning figures (75 per cent) this summer, and inland waterways are the leading location for drowning.
Inland waterways are the leading location for drowning. Over the past 10 years, most drowning deaths in men have occurred at unpatrolled inland waterways such as rivers and creeks, accounting for 31 per cent of deaths, more than any other location.
"Too many people have lost their lives to drowning this summer, especially at inland waterways," said Royal Life Saving CEO, Justin Scarr.
"People underestimate the risks of swimming in rivers and lakes, where conditions can change quickly and without warning.
"Have fun but be safe this Australia Day.
"Alcohol increases risk-taking behaviour, impairs judgement and impacts swimming ability. Inland waterways and alcohol are a deadly combination.
"Make the right call around water by avoiding alcohol, wearing a lifejacket when boating and fishing, and going with a friend."
Top 10 river drowning locations across Australia
- Murray River (NSW - Albury, Corowa, Moama; VIC - Mildura, Echuca; SA - Murray Bridge)
- Yarra River, Melbourne CBD
- Brisbane River, Brisbane CBD
- Hawkesbury River, Windsor & Wiseman's Ferry
- Murrumbidgee River, Wagga Wagga
- Swan River, Perth
- Parramatta River, Sydney
- Georges River, Sydney
- Nepean River, Penrith and Emu Plains
- Ross River, Townsville
