Skip to main content

How to play it safe by the water this summer

Thumbnail

As the weather (finally!) warms up, the idea of water recreation becomes more appealing. But before you grab a towel and head for the beach, pool or waterway, it pays to consider that drowning and other water recreation accidents pose a very real danger for Victorians of all ages.

Just taking a few moments to consider the following information can make all the difference in keeping yourself and others safe this summer.

Check the weather

It's important to check the weather before you head out for water activities. Depending on where you’re intending to swim or play, you should always check weather conditions and warnings, wind and wave conditions, high and low tide times, and flood warnings for inland waterways.

Safety at the beach

Swim between the red and yellow flags, where lifeguards can help if you get in trouble. 

Learn how to spot a rip current, the number one hazard on Australian beaches. You can find more information about rips here, including CALD resources for multicultural audiences.

Stop and think before you take the plunge. As well as rips, look for other hazards such as rocks or large waves.

Inland waterways

Rivers, creeks, lakes and dams can be great fun for a summer splash, but before you strap on your water skis, take a moment to consider the possible dangers.

Inland waterways can contain hidden hazards such as submerged objects and strong currents, which pose dangers for diving and swimming.

The recommendations for river recreation includes wearing a lifejacket, avoiding alcohol around water, always swimming with others (never alone), and taking the time to learn how to save a life.

Home Pools and Spas

Home pools and spas pose dangers for children with around four child drowning deaths in Victoria each year.

You should never take your eyes off young children when they are in the water and ensure that your pool or spa fence is compliant and therefore safe. Never leave your pool gates jammed open, even for a just a minute.

It is recommended that you ensure that your children learn to swim and that all pool owners learn CPR and display a resuscitation chart on the pool fence.

On 1 December 2019, the State Government introduced new laws around home swimming pools and spas designed to improve backyard pool and spa safety and reduce the number of drowning accidents that happen every year.

The following checklists will help you assess the safety of your pool and/or spa fence and are based on the relevant barrier standard associated with the date that the pool or spa was installed.

VBA self-assessment checklists:

For pools and spas installed before 8 April 1991 – VBA Checklist 1
For pools and spas installed between 8 April 1991 and 30 April 2010 – VBA Checklist 2
For pools and spas installed from 1 May 2010 – VBA Checklist 3

You can find more details and FAQs on pool and spa inspections and compliance on the VBA website.

If you have not yet registered your pool and/or spa with Council or require further information on pool and spa safety laws, please visit our safety laws for pool and spa owners page.

Further information about water safety

There are more factors to consider, especially if you plan to spend time this summer enjoying water recreational activities such as boating, fishing, or surfing. Find out more about how you can do everything possible to keep yourself and others safe around water.

Have you found the information you were looking for?