MORE than one-third of people who drown died more than 50km from their home, new Royal Life Saving research has found.

The findings have prompted an urgent warning from the life saving organisation for Canberrans to be vigilant when planning post-pandemic reunions away from home.

Royal Life Saving says unfamiliar swimming, boating and fishing spots increase the risk of drowning, with sandbars, rips, unpredictable currents, and changing local conditions often well known to locals, but harder for visitors to spot.

“After the past two years, we know people are eager to get out, explore our waterways and relax,” Royal Life Saving Society Australia CEO Justin Scarr says.

“Royal Life Saving is urging everyone to enjoy themselves, but to prepare and brush up on safety precautions, especially in unfamiliar locations.”

Mr Scarr says the research also revealed more than half of all adults will drink alcohol around the water, with alcohol being one of the biggest risk factors for drowning among adults.

“A lot of us have been out of the water during the pandemic and are out of practice,” Mr Scarr says.

“So please, avoid alcohol, avoid going alone and wear a lifejacket when swimming, fishing or boating so you make it home safely.”

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