Float to survive: a timely water safety reminder

With school holidays nearing an end, the Australia Day long weekend approaching and families continuing to make the most of Moreton Bay beaches, public pools and backyard pools, water safety experts are urging locals to remember one simple message that could save lives: float to survive.

While the weather forecast for the coming weeks may be mixed, experience shows that warm summer conditions still draw people to the water, whether it’s a swim at Redcliffe or Bribie Island, a visit to a local pool, or cooling off at home.

The reminder comes as new national figures reveal a sharp rise in drowning deaths across Australia.

The National Drowning Report 2025 shows 357 people drowned nationwide in the past year, a 27% increase on the 10-year average, making it one of the deadliest years on record.

Veteran Bondi lifeguard Bruce Hopkins said panic and exhaustion are often the biggest dangers when people get into trouble in the water.

“People who float conserve energy and, in most cases, survive. People who panic, struggle, and try to swim against the water can drown in less than 30 seconds,” he said.

“If you’re in trouble, stop fighting the water and FLOAT.”

Why floating matters

Lifeguards say rip currents are involved in many coastal rescues and drownings, not because people can’t swim, but because they panic and quickly exhaust themselves.

The advice is simple:

• Stop – Don’t fight the rip or try to swim straight back to shore

• Float – Keep your airway above water, relax your body and control your breathing

• Signal – Raise an arm or call for help while floating

“Floating gives you time,” Hopkins said. “Time to breathe, time to think and time for a lifeguard or bystander to help.”

Not just for the beach

While rip currents are a major risk at the coast, water safety experts say the message is just as important for rivers, public swimming pools and backyard pools, particularly during busy holiday periods when children and visitors may be around water more often.

Floating doesn’t mean staying completely still. It can involve lying on your back, floating upright, or gently moving to stay balanced - the key is keeping your airway above water while conserving energy.

Australia has now adopted Float to Survive as its national drowning-prevention message, with the approach being taught through schools, community programs and summer awareness campaigns.

“If every Australian knew how to float and stay calm, we could save countless lives.”

As locals make the most of the final weeks of summer holidays, authorities are reminding everyone to:

• Swim between the flags

• Always supervise children around water

• Take extra care around backyard pools and unfamiliar swimming spots

And remember the message that could save a life: If in doubt — float it out.