Young people and drowning facts:
Young people aged 15-24 have the second highest drowning rate of any age group in Western Australia. After years of education, young people are still not comprehending the dangers associated with participating in certain aquatic activities. Participation in unsafe behaviours around water such as cliff jumping, boating without a lifejacket, overestimating their ability and underestimating the dangers place 15-24 year olds at higher risk of drowning.
Alcohol continues to be an issue amongst this age group. Of all drowning deaths in 15 to 24 year old’s, alcohol contributed to 37%. Males contributed to 93% of these drowning deaths.
When a young person drowns it impacts their family, friends and the community. It is important young people remember when participating in aquatic activities to avoid alcohol.