2014 WA Coastal safety report SAVING LIVES AND BUILDING GREAT COMMUNITIES WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

CONTENTS

Foreword 4 Executive Summary 6 Australian Water Safety Strategy 2012-2015 8 The BeachSAFE Initiative 9 BeachSAFE Priorities 10 Definitions 10 2013-14 Coastal Drowning Snapshot 12 Introduction 14 Type of Coastal Fatality 16 Coastal Drowning Deaths 17 Hospitalisations 17 Who Drowns At The Coast? 18 Where And When Do They Drown? 20 How Do They Drown? 23 Demographic 25 Children 0-14 years 25 Young People 15-24 years 26 Adults 25-54 years 27 Older Adults 55+ years 28 Beach Patrols 31 Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Aerial Surveillance Program 36 Discussion 41 Partners 42 References 42

2 3 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA) is a volunteer based not for profit community service association and is the peak coastal aquatic safety and injury prevention organisation in WA. SLSWA creates a safe environment in and around our beaches through our patrolling presence on the beach, in During the 2013-14 season the air and through community and workplace education and training programs. volunteer surf lifesavers and paid

SLSWA’s Coastal Safety Report is produced annually to inform coastal safety lifeguards performed 1,386 rescues stakeholders about current drowning risks and trends at WA beaches. The information provided will assist all WA water safety agencies to achieve the at WA beaches. aspirational goal set by the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2012-2015 of achieving a 50% reduction in national drowning deaths by the year 2020.

The Surf Life Saving movement began in WA at Cottesloe Beach in 1909 in response to a number of drowning incidents in the area. Over the next 20 years a number of additional clubs commenced patrol operations in country and metropolitan locations. To date SLSWA has more than 20,000 valuable members across 29 surf clubs, who assist in protecting lives at WA beaches and play a fundamental role in building healthy communities. During the 2013-14 season volunteer surf lifesavers and paid lifeguards performed 1,386 rescues at WA beaches.

Despite the efforts of trained volunteer surf lifesavers, paid lifeguards and support operations teams, people continue to drown along the West Australian coastline each year, at non-patrolled beaches or at times when lifesavers and lifeguards are not on duty. The aim of all lifesavers and lifeguards is to achieve zero coastal drowning deaths.

4 5 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The WA Coastal Safety Report aims to identify coastal drowning trends and support evidence based decision making for future drowning prevention efforts.

Between 1 May 2013 and 30 April 2014 there were 17 coastal drowning deaths, a tragic 30% increase above the seven year average of 13 deaths a year. Although drowning figures continue to increase, surf life saving services prevent this number from skyrocketing, performing 1,386 The BeachSAFE Initiative lifesaving rescues and performing 38,337 preventative actions. Without the education and direct intervention strategies of Surf Life Saving the encompasses four key safety drowning statistics would likely be significantly higher. principles which are integral to As dynamic, unpredictable, free and largely unsupervised environments, beaches are amongst the most dangerous locations for aquatic recreation. staying safe when recreating at the beach. These are; Coastal activities that are high risk in WA include rock fishing, diving, snorkelling, boating and general free play activities. • Supervision The majority of drowning deaths were males (88%) and over 82% of all • Aquatic Education drowning deaths occurred in regional or remote areas of WA. High risk locations in WA include the Gascoyne, South West and Great Southern • First Aid regions. All drowning fatalities occurred at unpatrolled locations or outside of patrol times, clearly demonstrating the value of surf • Emergency Preparedness lifesaving services.

Compared to other aquatic environments beaches pose many additional risks for drowning and injury such as rip currents, large waves, tidal surges and dangerous rocky coast. Rip currents are a contributing factor In response to the increasing coastal drowning trend, SLSWA developed in approximately 24.5% of coastal drowning deaths with a significant the BeachSAFE Initiative in 2013 which takes a comprehensive and holistic proportion of the community mistaking rip currents as the safe area to swim approach to reducing coastal drowning deaths in WA. SLSWA lifesaving due to the presence of calm water and lack of awareness. services cannot be everywhere, all the time, and we have recognised that in the absence of our services the public lack the skills required to take Sadly, 35% of coastal drowning deaths were people of overseas nationality, responsibility for their own safety. The BeachSAFE Initiative therefore with swimming ability, knowledge of sea conditions and level of experience aims to improve the public’s awareness of coastal safety and promote the in an ocean environment playing a significant risk factor for coastal importance of coastal aquatic education. drowning in this group. The BeachSAFE Initiative encompasses four key safety principles which are integral to staying safe when recreating at the beach. These are; • Supervision • Aquatic Education • First Aid • Emergency Preparedness

The WA Coastal Safety Report aims to identify coastal drowning trends and support evidence based decision making for future drowning prevention efforts.

6 7 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014 Strategic

direction THE BEACHSAFE Initiative

Australian Water Safety Council 2012-2015 In response to increasing coastal drowning trends, Surf Life Saving WA has First Aid SLSWA strategies align with the priorities outlined in the Australian developed the BeachSAFE Initiative to help the WA community become Early response first aid is often the difference between life and death in an Water Safety Strategy (AWSS) 2012-15. The AWSS 2012-15 builds upon safer on the beach. BeachSAFE is based around the four key principles of emergency situation. Being equipped with the knowledge and awareness previous Water Safety Plans and Strategies and was developed by the beach safety that are fundamental to safe recreation and represent the of first aid and CPR, community members can potentially save someone’s Australian Water Safety Council (AWSC) in collaboration with National highest priorities for reducing drowning deaths in WA. life should they be involved in a coastal drowning incident. water safety agencies, government and other groups with an interest in These principles are; drowning prevention. Emergency Preparedness Supervision Emergency preparedness means dealing with and avoiding emergency Whilst surf lifesaving services supervise beach-goers at over 30 beaches in situations. It involves ensuring the appropriate equipment and processes WA, community members require the skills and knowledge to adequately are in place to lessen the impact and improve the chance of survival in an supervise each other in the absence of supervision services. emergency situation.

Aquatic Education Programs that increase the capacity of the community in relation to aquatic pursuits are at the core of the BeachSAFE Initiative. Increasing the communities understanding of the dynamic and ever changing hazards they may face on the coast and improving their skills to recreate safely significantly reduces their vulnerability. Figure 1.0 Australian Water Safety Strategy 2012-2015

Aspirational Goal BeachSAFE Initiative: Aquatic Education Continuum Surf Life Saving WA’s drowning prevention programs are consistent with the SAFE principles and align to the BeachSAFE Aquatic Education Continuum Reduce drowning deaths by 50% by 2020 which was designed to address key goal areas relative to coastal drowning deaths in WA.

Figure 2.0 Aquatic Education Continuum

Emergency Key Priority Areas Awareness Preservation Recreation Response Taking a life stages approach Targeting high risk locations Focusing on key drowning challenges

Development of risk Development of Development of essential Development of activity identification and Lifesaving skills to self-survival skills specific skills avoidance skills become a surf lifesaver Key Goal Areas

1. Children aged 0-14 5. Surf beaches 9. High risk populations 2. Young people aged 15-24 6. Aquatic industry 10. Impact of disaster and e.g. How to fish safely e.g. How to identify a e.g. How to escape a e.g. Bronze Medallion / 3. People aged 55+ 7. Alcohol and drugs extreme weather (including skills and rip current rip current Surf Rescue Certificate 4. Inland waterways 8. Watercraft & recreational activities equipment) WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014 BEACHSAFE PRIORITIES 2014

The following are Surf Life Saving WA’s BeachSAFE Priorities, determined First Aid in response to the findings of the 2014 WA Coastal Safety Report: • Increase the communities confidence and skill set to provide First Aid and CPR in aquatic related incidents Supervision • Continue to support SLSWA lifesaving services to provide fast and Emergency Preparedness effective patrols and emergency rescue and response services • Continue to improve the provision of resources to surf lifesaving services • Promote Surf Life Saving memberships to people of diverse cultures to • Promote the beachsafe.org.au website and smartphone app increase cultural capacity of surf lifesaving services • Provide advocacy for safe participation in high risk aquatic activities such as rock fishing, diving and snorkelling Aquatic Education • Increase youth completion of the Surf Rescue Certificate to increase • Increase reach of the ‘Swim Between the Flags’ message emergency response capacity • Expand reach of community education programs to high risk regions such as the South West, Great Southern and Perth Metropolitan regions • Provide culturally appropriate drowning prevention programs and resources • Encourage participation in WA surf life saving clubs to high risk groups

Definitions

• A coastal death is a fatality arising from various circumstances (e.g. heart attack, shark • A Surf lifesaver is a volunteer at a beach or other aquatic environment whose role is to attack, fall, boat collision) occurring where the location of the death is coastal. rescue people in danger of drowning or prevent them getting into that situation.

• A coastal drowning death is where the location of the drowning is on the coast, in the • Undetermined case – Cases that are not associated with a closed coroner’s report on ocean up to 2NM off-shore or inland up to 5 times the width of the inlet/river. NCIS are often left ‘undetermined’ until an official cause of death has been determined. Some examples are cases where bodies have been found washed up on the beach or • A Lifeguard is a professional paid employee at a beach or other aquatic environment reports of individuals struggling in coastal environments are made and the bodies are whose role is to rescue people in danger of drowning or prevent them getting into not found. These deaths will all be followed up on and the incident category updated that situation. once coroner determinations are made accessible. • An ocean death is a fatality arising from various circumstances (e.g. heart attack, shark • A Preventative action is when intervention by a lifesaving resource averts a person/s bite, fall) occurring where the location of the death is in the ocean greater than 2NM from getting into a life threatening or potentially life threatening situation. off-shore, but no greater than 12NM. • Wesfarmers Emergency Response Teams (WERT) is a lifesaving service which is • An ocean drowning death is where the location of the drowning is in the ocean greater part of the BeachSAFE Program and uses jet skis as a rapid response search and rescue than 2NM off-shore but no greater than 12NM. resource to assist emergency response stakeholders 24 hours a day, seven days a week • A rescue is when intervention by a lifesaving resource removes a person/s from a life at WA beaches. threatening or potentially life threatening situation. • The Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter is part of the BeachSAFE Program and performs • The SLSWA season begins on 1 May and ends on 30 April every year. aerial patrols in the Perth Metropolitan area, and the South West region as part of the Aerial Surveillance Program.

10 11 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

COASTAL SNAPSHOT Definitions 2013-2014

COASTAL Surf Life DROWNING Saving WA

OVERALL ACTIVITY “The total economic value of • 17 coastal drowning deaths • 29.4% were rock fishing Surf Life Saving WA’s coastal • 30% increase over the seven year • 23.5% were diving / snorkelling PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS drowning and injury prevention 38,337 • 38,337 preventative actions average of 13 • 23.5% were boating efforts in WA are estimated to be more than $282 million” Source: Pricewaterhouse Coopers 2011

DEMOGRAPHICS CONTRIBUTING FACTORS • 88% were males • 29.4% were attributed to rip • 70.5% were in the 25-54yr life stage currents • 35% were known to have an CLUB MEMBERSHIP 4,399 FIRST AIDS overseas nationality • 11,483 senior members • 4,399 first aids • 8,536 junior members

TIME LOCATION • 41% occurred in Autumn • All cases occurred in areas that Surf PATROL HOURS AERIAL SURVEILLANCE • 64.7% occurred in the afternoon Lifesavers were not present • 104,578 volunteer lifesaver hours • 703 hours of aerial surveillance • 82% were in regional or remote • 27,015 lifeguard hours areas of WA

BEACHSAFE PARTICIPANTS • 23 900 community members RESCUES 23,900 participated in BeachSAFE programs • 1,386 lifesaving rescues through the BeachSAFE Initiative 12 Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database, SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 and SLSWA Annual Report 2014 13 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014 Part one: coastal drowning analysis

Despite the vital efforts of SLSWA’s patrol services, coastal drowning deaths continue to increase in WA with an average of 13 drowning deaths occurring on the WA coast each year for the past seven years. Coastal drowning deaths have This report provides an overview of coastal drowning deaths that have occurred between 1 May 2007 and 30 April 2014 and submersion/ increased by 90% over the last immersion hospitalisations that have occurred at WA beaches between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2013. The report will also outline the seven years valuable lifesaving services delivered by SLSWA at over 30 locations from 1 May 2007 to 30 April 2014 that have heavily contributed to reducing drowning rates.

This information will be used to inform and support evidence based Drowning and hospitalisation rates per 100,000 populations have been decision making in regards to coastal drowning priorities for water safety based on the ABS standard population data cube within ‘Australian stakeholders in WA. Demographic Statistics’ (cat. no. 3101.0).

Methodology Surf lifesaving service statistics were obtained from the SLSWA Surf Guard Coastal drowning data was obtained from the WA Coastal Safety Report Database and were analysed by patrol hours, rescues, preventative actions Database compiled by SLSWA through media monitors and verified with and First Aid treatments. National Coronial Information System data. The data has been analysed by gender, age, year, nationality, location, time and activity. All care is taken to The data in this report will be presented in line with Priority 1 of the ensure the information contained in this report is correct, however pending AWSS 2012-15 Strategy which is to take a life stages approach to coronial investigations this data may be amended over time. drowning prevention.

Only unintentional coastal drowning cases are included in this report. Please note all drowning death data and SLSWA lifesaving service data Deaths are omitted if they are reported as intentional, undetermined is presented as a SLSWA season from 1 May to 30 April from 2007-08 to (open finding) or if drowning/immersion is not a primary cause of death. 2013-14 and immersion/submersion hospitalisation data is presented by Omissions include; suicide, homicide and shark attack fatalities. calendar year 1 January to 31 December from 2007 to 2013. Hospitalisation data was accessed and verified through the Department of Health WA, Epidemiology Branch. This data was analysed by gender, age, year, location and country of birth.

14 15 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Type of coastal Coastal Hospitalisations fatality drowning deaths

A total of 124 coastal fatalities occurred along the WA coast between Coastal drowning deaths continue to rise in WA with 94 deaths occurring There are on average 10 hospitalisations from a submersion/ immersion 1 May 2007 and 30 April 2014. Figure 3.0 displays the different types between 2007-08 and 2013-14. The most recent season saw one of the incident at WA beaches every year. A dramatic increase was seen in 2013 of fatalities that have occurred with coastal drowning deaths being the highest rates of coastal drowning deaths, with 17 cases occurring. This is a with a 114% increase in hospitalisations from the previous year, as seen most represented cause of death with 94 occurring over the seven 30% increase above the seven year average of 13 drowning deaths at WA in Figure 5.0 below. year period. beaches every year.

Please note the remainder of this report will focus on coastal drowning The crude incident rate for the 2013-14 season was higher than the deaths only (94). seven year average at 0.67 per 100, 000 persons compared to 0.52 per 100,000 persons.

Figure 4.0 displays an increasing trend of coastal drowning deaths over time with an increase of 90% over the past seven years.

BeachSAFE Initiative: Case Study Figure 3.0 Figure 4.0 Figure 5.0 In January 2014, lifeguards Janek Ferrandi and Ben Sowter rescued Coastal Fatalities by Type Coastal Drowning Deaths by Year Hospitalisations from Immersion/Submersion three surfers who had been dragged by a rip 500-600m off shore at Smiths Beach in WA’s south-west. WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 WA 2007 to 2013

Ben and Janek spent close to an hour on their rescue boards in challenging conditions looking to assist the surfers back <5<5 to the shore. 20 16 15 8 17 17 14 In the end, Janek and Ben chose to paddle the surfers through the break “Shallows”, a reef and a riskier path, after the Rescue 17 12 Water Craft (RWC) was unable to help. 94 15 14 14 13 12 11

One surfer was able to catch a wave to shore and was assisted 9 by a member of the public. After a further 10mins of watching 10 and waiting for a lull in the waves, Janek and Ben returned the 10 9 8 7 remaining surfers to shore. The surfers and the lifeguards were 94 treated for minor injuries.

Through their heroic actions, Janek and Ben saved three lives. 5 4 Their courageous efforts were recognised at the Parliamentary Number of hospitalisations Friends of Surf Life Saving quarterly event at Parliament House, <5

where the lifeguards were awarded with the national Rescue of deaths Number of coastal drowning the Month award. 0 0

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Coastal Drowning Deaths (94) Year Year Coastal Deaths (17) Ocean Drowning Deaths (8) Undetermined (<5) Ocean Deaths (<5)

16 Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database 2014 Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database 2014 Source: Epidemiology Branch, Department of Health 2014 17 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Who drowns at the coast?

Age and Gender The average age of those who drowned over the previous seven years is Nationality Of the 17 coastal drowning deaths recorded in WA in the 2013-14 season, 46 years with a standard deviation of 17.8 and a range of 13 - 81 years. The During the 2013-14 season 35% of coastal drowning deaths were people 88% of cases were male. This has been a similar trend since 2007-08, average for both males and females is similar with males averaging slightly from culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) backgrounds and 17.6% with males 6.8 times more likely to be involved in a drowning death than younger at 45.5 years compared to females at 49 years. were tourists or visitors to Western Australia. Similarly, 60% of coastal females at WA beaches, and 2.2 times more likely to be hospitalised from drowning hospital admissions were people born in countries other an immersion/submersion incident at the beach. This is likely related to The 15 to 40 year age group had the most hospitalisations from an than Australia. higher male participation in aquatic recreations such as boating and fishing immersion/submersion incident, with 30 incidents occurring since 2007 activities combined with higher risk taking behaviour. and 23 (77%) of these were male. A large proportion of nationalities are unknown in drowning data however data collected since 2007-08 shows the majority of coastal drowning deaths The 2013-14 season saw most coastal drowning deaths occur in adults, The age specific rate of coastal drowning deaths since 2007-08 is are people with Australian and New Zealand nationalities, followed closely with 70.5% occurring in the 25-54 year life stage and a further 23.5% in the statistically higher for males than females in the 21-40 and 51-70 age by European nationalities. Similarly, 35% of coastal drowning hospital 55+ life stage. group as seen in Figure 6.0. admissions were people born in countries other than Australia.

Figure 6.0 Figure 7.0 BeachSAFE Initiative: CaLD Inclusion Program Age Specific Coastal Drowning Rates by Gender Number of Coastal Drowning Deaths by Nationality SLSWA recognises the importance of developing inclusive drowning prevention programs to increase the CaLD WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 populations’ resilience to drowning. With support from the Department of Sport and Recreation, SLSWA aims to increase CaLD participation rates in BeachSAFE community programs 20 40 38 and SLSWA lifesaving activities. In 2013-14 approximately 1000 CaLD youth participated 15 in BeachSAFE programs. In April 2014, over 100 kids from 30 the African community organisation, KUSH Centre for Music Culture and Community Development, spent three fun 22 filled days at Leighton and Sorrento Beach completing 10 the Introduction to BeachSAFE session and Beach 20 Activities program. 14 13 Program evaluation revealed that all participants increased 5 their knowledge about beach safety including how to spot and 10 avoid rip currents and the purpose of the red and yellow flags. Number of drowning deaths Number of drowning Rate per 100,000 persons Rate per 100,000 0 <5 <5 0

-5 0-10 11-20 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71-80 81+ Australian/ African American Asian European Unknown NZ Age Group Nationality

Male Age Specific

Female Age Specific

Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database and ABS 2014 Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database 2014 19 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

where and when do they drown?

Region snorkelling (23%). Drowning deaths at regional or remote locations Season People are 2.6 times more likely to drown at regional or remote coastal were most likely to occur as a result of rock fishing (26%) and diving/ Coastal drowning deaths occur all year round however over the previous locations where vital lifesaving services and resources are limited compared snorkelling (23%). seven years the majority have occurred in summer (33%) and autumn to the Perth Metropolitan region. The 2013-14 season saw a significant (30%) as seen below in Figure 9.0. These seasons are popular times of the increase in regional and remote drowning deaths with 82% occurring In contrast, people are more likely to be hospitalised from an immersion/ year for coastal recreation due to the warmer temperatures and generally in regional WA, compared to the average of 72% over the previous submersion incident in the Perth metropolitan area compared to regional favourable weather conditions. seven years. and remote areas of WA with 70% of hospital admissions being to metropolitan health services, compared to 30% of admissions at remote The 2013-14 season was reflective of this with the majority of coastal Since 2007-08 the regions that have had the highest number of coastal northern and southern country health services. drowning deaths occurring in autumn (29%) and equally across drowning deaths were Perth Metropolitan (27.6%), South West (23%), summer, winter and spring. Great Southern (13.8%) and Gascoyne (13.8%), this is a consistent trend Figure 8.0 displays the number and crude rate of coastal drowning deaths across most life stages. by region in WA. The regions with the highest rate of coastal drowning deaths were the Gascoyne (132 per 100,000 persons) followed by the The most common activities being conducted prior to drowning in the Great Southern (22 per 100,000 persons). Perth Metropolitan region were swimming/wading (42%) and diving/

Figure 8.0 Figure 9.0 BeachSAFE Initiative: Case Study Number and Rate of Coastal Drowning Deaths by Region Number of Coastal Drowning Deaths by Season Port Bouvard SLSC members Jack Knobben and Jamie Olivier rescued four girls from a rip at Pyramids Beach in January 2014. WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 The lifesavers helped the girls out of the rip when they became stuck and distressed.

25 80 40 The club received a letter of thanks from each of the young girls’ parents, commending them on their diligence and 70 quick thinking. 20 31 60 30 28

15 50 19 40 20 16 10 30

20 5 10 10 Number of coastal drowning deaths Number of coastal drowning

0

Number of coastal drowning deaths Number of coastal drowning 0 0 Goldfields Great Southern South West Metropolitan Gascoyne Wheatbelt Midwest Pilbara Kimberley Summer Autumn Winter Spring (Dec-Feb) (Mar-May) (June-Aug) (Sept-Nov) Region Season Number of drowning deaths Crude drowning rate

Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database and ABS 2014 Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database 2014 21 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

how do they drown?

Time Coastal aquatic sports and recreation continue to be a popular aspect of The majority of coastal drowning deaths since 2007-08 have occurred in West Australian culture. Unfortunately these activities do not come without the afternoon between 12pm and 4pm (41%). This may be attributed to risk. The 2013-14 season saw most coastal drowning deaths in WA occur adverse weather conditions that are more likely to occur in the afternoon whilst the person was either rock fishing (29%), diving/snorkelling (23.5%), compared to the morning, such as a strong sea breeze, tidal changes and or boating (23.5%). higher swells. This trend has continued from 2007-08 with diving/snorkelling, rock fishing The 2013-14 season showed similar results with 53% of coastal drowning and swimming/wading being the top three high risk activities for coastal deaths occurring in the afternoon. drowning deaths in WA. Rip currents continue to be a contributing factor in over 24% of all coastal drowning deaths since 2007-08. Almost half (45.7%) of all coastal drowning deaths in the reporting period occurred on weekends. This may be associated with higher beach attendance rates on weekends compared to weekdays. This was consistent in the 2013-14 season with 47% of coastal drowning rates occurring on weekends compared to weekdays.

Figure 10.0 BeachSAFE Initiative: In the regions Figure 11.0 BeachSAFE Initiative: Emergency Preparedness Number of Coastal Drowning Deaths by Time of Day Surf Life Saving WA provides valuable supervision services at Number of Coastal Drowning Deaths by Activity Surf Life Saving WA teaches safe recreation through the over 30 beaches in WA, including 12 regional patrol services. Emergency Preparedness principle of the BeachSAFE WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 During patrol hours in 2013-14 regional WA beaches saw WA 2007-08 to 2013-14 Initiative. Promotion of key safety messages that increase the over 700,000 visitors, and surf lifesaving services performed community’s capacity, prevent emergency situations and 39 334 lifesaving rescues, positively contributing to zero coastal improve the chance of survival in emergency situations are a 40 drowning deaths during patrol times. 25 priority in WA. Unfortunately, 14 lives were tragically lost along the regional 21 Key safety messages are incorporated in SLSWA’s BeachSAFE 19 19 coastline in WA outside of the surf lifesaving patrol hours. 20 community programs and public awareness campaigns such 30 These figures demonstrate the effectiveness of SLSWA as; ‘Don’t Put Your Life on the Line’ and utilising available lifesaving services in reducing coastal drowning deaths, and coastal safety tools such as www.beachsafe.org.au to check the the importance of recreating at patrolled locations. 14 oceans conditions and localised hazards prior to participation. 21 15 13 20 Although many beachgoers are drawn to the unexplored areas SLSWA encourages all beachgoers to be prepared for 15 of the WA coastline, increasing promotion of peer supervision, emergencies, particularly when partaking in hazardous 12 quick response first aid and emergency preparedness are high 10 activities. SLSWA has partnered with peak sporting bodies priorities in drowning prevention. such as the WA Kitesurfing Association (WAKSA), Canoeing 10 5 WA and RecFish West to encourage beachgoers to seek safety 5 Surf Life Saving has developed the beachsafe.org smartphone 5 information regarding their chosen recreational pursuit.

Number of coastal drowning deaths Number of coastal drowning app to assist beachgoers in making informed decisions when deaths Number of coastal drowning <5 <5 visiting the beach. Beachgoers can search local beaches to find 0 out patrol information and receive live weather conditions and 0 beach hazards. 5am 9am 12pm 7pm 4pm Unknown - - - - - 9am 12pm 4pm 12pm 7pm Boating Rock Fishing Season Non powered Other/unknown Rock/Cliff related Rock/Cliff Diving/snorkeling Swimming/wading Activity

Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database 2014 Source: WA Coastal Safety Report Database 2014 23 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Demographic

High Risk Activities Children 0-14 years Diving/Snorkelling Coastal drowning deaths and hospitalisations remain low in the 0-14 Diving and snorkelling are exhilarating recreational activities commonly year age group. Since 2007-08 there have been zero drowning deaths in participated in along the WA coastline. Unfortunately these activities have the 0-4 age group and less than five hospitalisations from an immersion/ inherent risks and have accounted for 22% of coastal drowning deaths in submersion incident at the beach. WA since 2007-08, with 57% snorkelling, 33.3% scuba diving and 9.5% free diving at the time of the incident. Since 2007-08 there has been one drowning death in the 0-14 age group which occurred whilst swimming/wading in which a rip current Diving is a high risk aquatic activity due to the use of technical equipment, was present. high risk environments and effects from an individual’s health status. Lack of experience and familiarity with equipment and the environment prove BeachSAFE Priorities to be common risk factors in diving/snorkelling incidents with the majority 1. Continue supporting SLSWA lifesaving services to provide effective of divers/snorkellers becoming distressed and unable to cope in their patrols and search and rescue solutions environment for reasons unknown. 2. Expand the reach and further promote parental supervision programs Rock fishing such as the SLSWA SurfBabies and SurfKids programs Slippery and uneven surfaces combined with the unpredictable nature of the ocean make rock fishing one of the most dangerous recreational 3. Continue implementation and further promotion of aquatic education activities in Australia. The 2013-14 season saw high numbers of rock fishing BeachSAFE Initiative: Case Study BeachSAFE Initiative: 0 to 14 years and first aid programs such as the SLSWA Life Skills for Life program in fatalities with five lives lost in WA. On 1 December 2013, during the allocated abalone fishing Parents, carers and surf lifesaving services providing adequate schools and community groups hour, surf lifesavers at Yanchep Lagoon rescued 14 fishers supervision are to be commended for the low rates of coastal Since 2007-08 rock fishing fatalities have accounted for 20% of all coastal and administered first aid on two. Between 150 to 200 fishers drowning and injury amongst the 0 to 14 year age group. In 4. Provide culturally appropriate solutions to diverse groups, particularly drowning deaths. Of these incidents, 95% were males and 68% were known ventured on to the reef at Yanchep to take advantage of the 2013-14 SLSWA delivered its SurfBabies and SurfKids program about the role of surf lifesaving services and the ‘Swim between the to be of overseas nationality. The reduction of rock fishing related drowning abalone fishing opportunity, despite a large swell being present to 1,600 parents and their children in WA, including the newly Flags’ message deaths remains a priority for drowning prevention initiatives through the in the area that day. introduced regional location of Albany. Children aged two to seven emergency preparedness principle of the BeachSAFE Initiative. gained valuable water familiarisation and coping skills whilst their 5. Promote the beachsafe.org website and smartphone app to parents In the past two years, three people have lost their lives whilst parents and carers learnt how to effectively supervise their children and carers of young children Swimming/Wading abalone fishing in WA. This is an alarmingly high figure for just at the beach. Learning to swim is a primary skill for safe aquatic recreation; however the one coastal recreational activity. 6. Work with land managers to ensure appropriate coastal aquatic safety coast is a dynamic environment with constantly changing risks that can As children further engage in coastal recreation independently or signage is installed at beaches including appropriate CaLD solutions place even competent swimmers in difficult situations. Unfortunately 20% Yanchep Surf Life Saving Club president John Heesters has with their peers, it is important that they are equipped with the if required of coastal drowning deaths in WA since 2007-08 were swimmers, of which witnessed firsthand the tragedies of abalone season, and skills and knowledge to do so safely. SLSWA delivered community nearly half (47%) occurred due to the presence of a rip current. is devoted to developing targeted surf lifesaving patrols to programs to in excess of 10,000 school students and community improve the safety of those taking part. members in regional and metropolitan WA, introducing the four A significant proportion (58%) of swimming/wading deaths were people principles of the BeachSAFE Initiative to increase their capacity to over the age of 55, of which more than half had an underlying medical “Abalone days are generally action days, putting our lifesavers recreate safely at the coast. condition. People of overseas nationality were also highly represented in to the test. We continue to evolve as individuals and as a swimming/wading deaths with 58% known to be of foreign ethnicity. club to ensure fast and effective responses on the day”, he said. Mr Heesters stressed the importance of fishers taking responsibility for their own safety; dressing appropriately, assessing their abilities to the conditions and talking to lifesavers before entering the water.

Due to the influx of fishers during the allocated abalone fishing days, Surf Life Saving WA puts on extra lifesavers, lifeguards and jet-ski operators to patrol the coast during the abalone fishing season and help prevent coastal drowning deaths.

24 25 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Young people 15-24 years Adults 25-54 years A tragic ten people aged between 15 and 24 years have drowned at WA During the 2013-14 season 12 (70%) adults aged 25-54 years drowned beaches since 2007-08 with another 14 young people hospitalised from a at WA beaches as a result of immersion. Common activities at the time of submersion/immersion incident at the beach. During the 2013-14 season the incident include diving/snorkelling (33%) and boating (25%). Others one coastal drowning case occurred at WA beaches in this age group. were rock fishing, swimming/wading or participating in rock/cliff related activities. 75% occurred in the regions with the majority occurring in the Of the ten (10) lives lost since 2007-08, all were males with half of the Gascoyne and South West. coastal drowning deaths in this age group (50%) identified as having an overseas nationality. A total of 51 coastal drowning deaths occurring at WA beaches between 2007-08 and 2013-14. Of these drowning deaths, 41% were younger Common activities at the time of the incident include diving/snorkelling adults aged 25-36 years, and another 41% were older adults aged 45-54 (30%), rock fishing (30%) and operating non-powered watercraft (20%). years. Hospitalisations follow a similar trend with 31% of all hospitalisations occurring in the 25-39 year age group. A majority (90%) of these drowning deaths occurred in the regional areas of WA with 40% occurring in the South West, 40% in the Great Southern and High risk activities in the 25 to 54 year age group include diving/ the remainder of drowning deaths occurring in the Perth Metropolitan area snorkelling (25%), rock fishing (21.5%) and swimming/wading (21.5%). and the Kimberley region. Other activities included boating and operating non-powered watercraft. Regional beaches were the location of 70.5% of incidents and in 23.5% of The incidents occurred all year round with 40% occurring in autumn. BeachSAFE Initiative: 15 to 24 years all drowning deaths in this age group rip currents were identified as being a BeachSAFE Initiative: 25 to 54 years Over half (60%) occurred in the afternoon which is likely to be associated Males are commonly over represented in coastal drowning contributing factor. The 25 to 54 year age group has the highest number of coastal with adverse weather conditions such as a strong sea breeze, high swells statistics particularly in the 15 to 24 year age group. This is drowning deaths of all life stages between 2007-08 and and tidal changes. Rip currents were involved in 50% of coastal drowning likely attributed to increased male participation in risk In a trend across all life stages, males were predominantly represented at 2013-14. As common activities for this age group often occur deaths in this age group. taking behaviour and activities such as rock fishing, diving 84.3% of coastal drowning deaths and 49% also identified as having an outside of patrolled locations, drowning prevention methods and snorkelling. Drowning prevention programs for young overseas nationality. should include access to beach safety information that assists BeachSAFE Priorities people aged 15 to 24 years should address emergency participants to make informed decisions regarding their 1. Continue to support surf lifesaving services to provide effective patrols preparedness for high risk activities such as rock fishing and Drowning deaths occurred across all seasons however over 68.6% occurred recreational choice. and fast and effective emergency response services. diving/snorkelling. in summer and autumn. Nearly 58.8% of drowning deaths occurred in the afternoon between 12 and 6pm, coinciding with common adverse weather SLSWA has recently increased accessibility for CaLD 2. Further promote and establish BeachSAFE community programs in SLSWA currently offers a range of emergency preparedness conditions experienced in the afternoons. beachgoers to live and localised beach conditions through high risk regions including the South West, Great Southern and Perth programs to equip young adults with valuable life saving the installation of QR code signage at popular WA beaches. Metropolitan area. skills to reduce injury and increase chances of survival if BeachSAFE Priorities The addition of the QR codes to existing standardised beach an emergency does occur. The 2013-14 season saw 1,400 1. Increase support to SLSWA lifesaving services to provide signage links beachgoers to the beachsafe.org website in over 3. Develop culturally appropriate programs and resources for this community members complete the Surf Rescue certificate, fast and effective emergency response services, 72 languages via their smart phone. life stage. which provides skills in performing rescues, identifying particularly in high risk areas including the South West dangers and basic supervision and emergency first aid skills. and Gascoyne regions. The QR code signs were initially developed as part of a coastal 4. Address emergency preparedness education in young people, The recent year saw an increase in the number of high school drowning prevention program funded by the Department particularly for rock fishing and diving/snorkelling. students completing the course in schools and through 2. Develop culturally appropriate programs and resources for of Health in which partnerships were formed with coastal SLSWA’s cadet program which is comprised of seven school this life stage. local governments to identify risks and trends within each 5. Promote the beachsafe.org.au website and smartphone app to young cadet units. jurisdiction and develop strategies to address these. The people 15-24 years. 3. Address emergency preparedness initiatives for rock innovative nature and cost effectiveness of the QR codes has fishing and diving/snorkelling safety. led to their inclusion as a common recommendation for local governments following a safety audit of their coastline. 4. Promote the beachsafe.org.au website and smartphone app to adults 25-54 years.

5. Continue to work with land managers to ensure appropriate coastal aquatic safety signage is installed at beaches, including options for CaLD groups.

26 27 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Part two: The value of Surf Life saving

Older Adults 55+ years Services Four people aged 55 and over drowned at WA beaches in the 2013-14 season. All drowning deaths occurred in the regions including the Great Southern, Mid-West and South West. All cases were males with the majority rock fishing (75%) and boating (25%) at the time of the incident.

Between 2007-08 and 2013-14, 32 coastal drowning deaths occurred in the 55 and over age group. Males were over represented, accounting for 87.5% of all coastal drowning deaths. Over 40.6% of this age group identified as having an overseas nationality and another 37.5% identified as being Australian or New Zealander, with other nationalities being unknown.

Common activities at the time of the incident include swimming/wading (22%), operating non-powered watercraft (22%) diving/snorkelling (15.6%) and boating (18.75%). Rip currents were only reported in 15.6% of drowning deaths within this age group, which may indicate this age group are aware of how to identify and avoid rip currents. BeachSAFE Initiative: 55+ Drowning deaths occurred equally across all seasons within this age With an aging population, the 55+ age group is the second group, and predominantly occurred in the afternoon (53%), which is highest life stage for coastal drowning deaths in WA. A high likely to be associated with adverse weather conditions. proportion of these coastal drowning deaths were attributed to pre-existing medical conditions. Had these incidents occurred A significant amount of coastal drowning deaths (45%) occurred in the in lifesaver patrolled locations, or had other suitably qualified regions with the majority (25%) occurring in the South West alone. persons been present, the chance of survival would have been significantly greater given the possibility of rescue and Over 30% of coastal drowning deaths in this age group were knowingly immediate administration of First Aid and CPR. associated with pre-existing health conditions with 80% of these related to cardiovascular disease. Early response First Aid and CPR can be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Unfortunately SLSWA BeachSAFE Priorities lifesaving services cannot be present at all times and it is 1. Increase the communities confidence and skill set to provide First Aid important for individuals to be equipped with lifesaving First and CPR in aquatic related incidents. Aid and CPR skills. It is recommended this age group complete regular first aid and CPR courses to ensure they can assist in the 2. Target high risk locations including the Great Southern, Mid-West event of an emergency. The 2013-14 season saw over 13,900 and South West. West Australians complete a training course with Surf Life Saving WA, equipping them with the skills to save a life. 3. Address emergency preparedness, by providing age and activity appropriate interventions.

4. Promote the beachsafe.org.au website and smartphone app to older adults 55+ years.

5. Increase support to SLSWA lifesaving services to provide fast and effective emergency response services.

28 29 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

BEACH PATROLS

Over 30 WA beaches are patrolled by a combination of professional and Rescues volunteer lifesaving services that both protect and save people’s lives on the On average SLSWA lifesaving services rescue approximately 1245 people coast. These services include: every year at WA beaches. Without these services, it is anticipated that a • Volunteer lifesaver patrols significant proportion of these people would have drowned and many more • Professional Lifeguards patrols would have been seriously injured. • Wesfarmers Emergency Response Teams (Jet ski patrols) Figure 12.0 shows the number of rescues performed by SLSWA beach These services survive on community support and involvement. Without patrols remains steady due to a significant shift in patrol service proactivity this contribution the number of coastal drowning deaths and related injury around educating the public about beach safety. This means a lesser would be drastically higher in WA. This is a testament to the countless hours percentage of people require rescuing as SLSWA lifesaving services are of training, skill and dedication of Surf Life Saving patrol members. focusing on implementing ‘preventative actions’ which aim to prevent someone from getting into a potentially life threatening situation, such as educating people about how to avoid and escape rip currents.

BeachSAFE Initiative: Case Study Figure 12.0 Off-duty lifeguards and Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Total SLSWA Rescues by Year crewmen Michael Prosser and Cameron Coulson rescued two kite Secret Habour Surf Life Saving surfers at Cottesloe Beach in January 2014. Club was named DHL Club of WA 2009-10 to 2013-14 Michael and Cameron were driving past Cottesloe beach when the Year at the National 2014 they spotted the two kite surfers tangled 300m out to sea. Michael parked his vehicle and signalled to another kite surfer to assist Surf Life Saving Australia Awards him, while Cameron called lifeguards for help. Australian Lifeguard 2500 Service lifeguard Tehya Robertson and Cottesloe SLSC member of Excellence. The WA club was Zane Creswell were quick on the scene after grabbing rescue boards and paddling out to the kite surfers. commended for its patrol services 2000 2062 They managed to paddle the kite surfers away from the rocks and and delivering public education reef back to shore. programs to increase safety. 1500

1000 1216 1050 1096 Number of rescues 500 803

0

2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014

Year

Source: SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 31 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Preventative Actions Preventative actions performed by SLSWA lifesaving services have been increasing since the 2009-10 season with an increase of over 200% as displayed in Figure 13.0. Preventative actions are when intervention by a Surf Lifesaving preventative lifesaving resource averts a person/s from getting into a life threatening or potentially life threatening situation. actions have increased by

These are key to the effectiveness of SLSWA lifesaving services in regards 200% since the 2009-10 season. to drowning and injury prevention as they educate the public about beach safety, support behaviour change and allow the public to be better informed when recreating at the beach.

Figure 13.0 BeachSAFE Initiative: Case Study BeachSAFE Initiative: Case Study SLSWA Preventative Actions by Year Penguin Island is a popular tourist destination seeing more Surf Life Saving WA duty lifeguard Peter Hainsworth rescued a than 80, 000 visitors each year. The island can be reached by 15-year old girl from a rip at Yanchep Lagoon in January 2014. WA 2009-10 to 2013-14 a ferry service, shuttling visitors to the island in the warmer Holly Kincart was only in waist-deep water when she was hit months, or by crossing the 800m shallow sandbar that extends by a wave, and became caught in a rip which took her out to from the mainland to the island. Conditions on the sandbar sea. Once notified, Peter managed to reach to Holly in a very 45,000 change very quickly, particularly in the afternoon when the sea short period of time, despite having to paddle out 400 metres breeze comes in. to reach her. The young lifeguard performed a successful board 40,000 rescue, and paddled Holly back in to shore in difficult and In favourable conditions the crossing can take as little as 15 choppy conditions. 35,000 minutes, but crossing can become very dangerous for the 38,337 30,000 uneducated if they choose to cross in unfavourable conditions.

25,000 32,595 Unfortunately many walkers who attempt the sandbar crossing 27,574 do not have the adequate swimming skills, understanding of 20,000 local conditions or fitness abilities to undertake the crossing 15,000 safely. These are factors that attributed to the tragic loss of two men who attempted the crossing in December 2010.

Number of preventative actions Number of preventative 10,000 16,900 12,659 SLSWA and Secret Harbour Surf Life Saving Club responded 5,000 to this issue by increasing their supervision of the area, 0 implementing extra lifesaving patrols that began in 2011-12 and producing warning brochures in multiple languages.

2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 Secret Harbour Surf Life Saving captain Rick Lowe said surf lifesavers had devoted more than 710 hours to patrolling the Year sandbar, preventing tourists from crossing and assisting those in difficulty last season. In 2013-14 lifesavers directly prevented 3,748 people from hazardous situations and performed 51 lifesaving rescues.

“We have provided extensive supervision and education to warn people of the dangers, without doubt contributing to a safer tourist experience” Rick said. Source: SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 33 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

First Aid Treatments Patrol Hours The WA community has benefited from over 30,853 First Aid Treatments Over the five year period 2009-10 to 2013-14 the community benefited from qualified SLSWA lifesaving services in the previous five years. from over 673,609 supervision hours from SLSWA lifesaving services at A recent decrease in First Aids from the previous season is likely The WA community has benefited WA beaches. attributed to SLSWA’s direct preventative actions and community based education programs. from over 30,853 First Aid WA is currently the fastest growing state in Australia and is one of the fastest growing urban sprawl cities in the world. With this large urban sprawl, more First Aid can reduce the severity of an injury acquired in a beach Treatments from qualified SLSWA and more beaches are becoming accessible to the community. environment and can also preserve life until professional medical assistance arrives. lifesaving services in the previous In addition, the popularity of beach recreation is increasing and a more five years. diverse range of activities are occurring on the coast such as abalone fishing and kite boarding. This increase in beach recreation places more demand on SLSWA lifesaving services. Supervision hours by SLSWA lifesaving services have increased every year in WA since 2009-10 as seen in figure 15.0 below.

Figure 14.0 Figure 15.0 SLSWA First Aid Treatments by Year SLSWA Patrol Hours by Year WA 2009-10 to 2013-14 WA 2009-10 to 2013-14

9,000 120,000

8,000 100,000 7,000 8,392 8,061 104,578 6,000 80,000 93,385 93,071 95,619 5,000 6,127 83,940 60,000 4,000

3,000 4,399 40,000 3,874 hours Number of patrol 2,000 20,000 Number of first aid treatments Number of first 1,000 23,998 25,333 27,015 16,106 17,751 0 0

2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014

Year Year

Lifesaver Lifeguard

Source: SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 Source: SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 35 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

westpac lifesaver Rescue helicopter aerial surveillance program

SLSWA operates two Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopters. The services Search and Rescues Preventative Actions are operated by 25 qualified, full time and volunteer aviation staff, providing The Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Services are on stand-by 365 days The Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter crews are on the lookout for valuable aerial patrols to the Perth Metropolitan and the South West regions to respond quickly to assist our lifesavers and lifeguards as required; as potential hazards and incidents on the coastline, such as rip currents, of WA. well as providing support to emergency services by conducting search and marine sightings and vessels in distress. Perth Metro and South West rescue both on water and land. The Perth Metropolitan service operates full time, 365 days a year and The Perth Metro and South West services directly prevented 58 incidents helicopter services directly provides coastal surveillance, search and rescue response and support to Figure 16.0 displays the number of search and rescue operations occurring on the WA coastline during the 2013-14 season this was achieved emergency services from Mandurah in the south to Yanchep in the north. performed by the Perth Metro and South West Helicopter services since by alerting swimmers and lifesavers on the beach of visible hazards from prevented 58 incidents occurring the commencement of the South West service in 2011. the aircraft. The South West service situated in Busselton commenced primarily as a on the WA coastline during the surveillance operation at the end of 2011; however it has now increased its 2013-14 season. capability to provide search and rescue response and assistance to other emergency services such as Police, Fire and Ambulance.

Figure 16.0 Figure 17.0 Search and Rescues by Year Preventative Actions by Year WA 2011-12 to 2013-14 WA 2011-12 to 2013-14

91 37 100 40 35 78

80 57 30 21 60 17 20 27 11 40 22 10 10 20

Number of search and rescues Number of search actions Number of preventative 11

0 0 20011/12 2012/13 2013/14 20011/12 2012/13 2013/14

Year Year

Perth Metro Perth Metro South West South West

Source: SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 Source: SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 37 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Patrol Hours Flight times and length of patrols depend on a range of factors including weather conditions, search and rescue operations, beach usage and events and other environmental factors.

The Perth Metro Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter is a full time service on call 365 days a year, spending a total of 425 hours in the air during the 2013-14 season.

The South West Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter flew for 278 hours during the 2013-14 season across the peak summer period and returning for key holiday periods such as Easter when the region is at its busiest.

Figure 18.0 BeachSAFE Initiative: Case Study Patrol Hours by Year In February 2014 the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter was involved in a search for three missing fishermen after they failed WA 2011-12 to 2013-14 to return to Woodman Point after a fishing trip in a newly purchased boat.

Having been missing from more than 12 hours, grave fears were held for the men. After an extensive search, the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter crew sighted the three men mid-morning, 600 some ten kilometres off the coast of Fremantle. Fortunately all 488 three men were wearing life jackets and after more than fifteen hours in the water they were rescued. 500 425 424 The men did not have time to activate their EPIRB and luckily, 400 they were found in time by the SLSWA Westpac Lifesaver Rescue 278 263 Helicopter, 15 hours after they had entered the water near Carnac Island. 300 196 Wearing their bright yellow lifejackets allowed the helicopter to 200 spot the men and allowed them to float and conserve more energy to keep themselves from suffering severe hypothermia. Number of patrol hours Number of patrol 100 The action of these men wearing life jackets and tying themselves together supports the fundamental BeachSAFE principle of Emergency Preparedness. 0 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14

Year

Perth Metro South West

Source: SLSWA Surf Guard Database 2014 39 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

Discussion

Economic Impact This report highlights a number of key drowning issues if which addressed These are common trends which SLSWA endeavours to address through Surf Life Saving offers a unique and valuable drowning and injury prevention will assist in reducing the number of coastal drowning deaths in WA. This the four fundamental principles of the BeachSAFE Initiative. It is important service to the community which is largely supported and operated by will also contribute to reaching the AWSC goal of achieving a 50% reduction to take a life stages approach to reduce coastal drowning deaths in WA. This community volunteers. Surf Life Saving is the largest volunteer organisation in drowning deaths in Australia by 2020. ensures each target group can be engaged with effectively by supporting of its kind in Australia and without the selfless vigilance of many tens of community development and capacity building within each community thousands of volunteers the coastal drowning landscape would be The following are Surf Life Saving WA’s BeachSAFE Priorities, determined and fostering sustainable partnerships to reduce drowning deaths in the vastly worse. in response to the findings of the 2014 WA Coastal Safety Report: long term.

According to the Price Waterhouse Coopers Report ‘What is the economic Supervision The data provided in this report provides water safety stakeholders with contribution of Surf Life Saving in Australia’ (2011), 5% of people rescued • Continue to support SLSWA lifesaving services to provide information to drive evidence based decision making in regards to coastal by surf lifesaving services would have resulted in a drowning death, and a fast and effective patrols and emergency rescue and aquatic safety. further 3% would have resulted in permanent incapacitation. response services • Promote Surf Life Saving memberships to people of Over a 4 year period, SLSWA lifesaving services were able to: diverse cultures to increase cultural capacity of surf • Prevent 258 people from drowning at WA beaches lifesaving services • Save 155 people from permanent incapacitation • Save the WA economy over $1.45 billion Aquatic Education BeachSAFE Initiative: PwC Report ‘What is the economic • Increase the reach of the ‘Swim Between the Flags’ message contribution of Surf Life Saving in Australia’ • Expand the reach of community education programs to high In 2011 PwC was commissioned by Surf Life Saving Australia risk regions such as the South West, Great Southern and (SLSA) to estimate the economic value of Surf Life Saving to the Perth Metropolitan regions Over a four year period SLSWA Australian community. The report demonstrated that for every • Provide culturally appropriate drowning prevention $1 invested in SLSWA, the WA community receives a $29 return programs and resources lifesaving services saved the WA on investment. • Encourage participation in WA surf life saving clubs to high risk groups economy over $1.45 billion. Nationally, the report identified; • More than 43,000 surf lifesaving members were active First Aid volunteer patrolling surf lifesavers • Increase the communities confidence and skill set to provide first aid and CPR in aquatic related incidents • Over 70% of members volunteered more than 3 hours per week, with almost a quarter of members donating in excess Emergency Preparedness of 10 hours per week • Continue to improve the provision of resources to surf • Half of volunteers patrol between 3 and 10 hours per lifesaving services week during the season • Promote the beachsafe.org.au website and smartphone app • Collectively, these surf lifesavers (and SLS’s lifeguards) • Provide advocacy for safe participation in high risk aquatic completed approximately 12,000 rescues per season, and activities such as rock fishing, diving and snorkelling through preventative actions avoided a further 6,000 • Increase youth completion of the Surf Rescue Certificate to rescues across Australia increase emergency response capacity • Volunteer surf lifesaving services in Australia provide the greatest value in avoiding costs associated with drowning deaths, and overall the total value of lives saved and assisted was more than $3.4 billion ($282 million in WA) in 2009/10 • In addition, the flow-on effects from avoided loss of productivity due to Surf Life Saving services on other sectors of the economy needed to be considered in order to understand the full value of Surf Life Saving in Australia. Using a CGE model, the flow-on impacts are in the order of $154 million per year to the Australian economy ($10million in WA) 40 41 Source: Pricewaterhouse Coopers 2011 WA COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2014

With Thanks

Swanbourne Albany Broome Coogee Mullaloo Cottesloe City of Nedlands (AL) (BM) Beach (ML) (CO) Perth (SN) (CB) (CY)

Esperance Trigg Binningup Margaret Busselton Denmark Geraldton Goldfields Island (BP) River (BN) (DN) (GN) (EG) (TI) (MR)

Sorrento Mandurah Quinns Champion Dalyellup Scarboro Dongara (SO) (MH) Mindarie Bay Beach (SB) Denison (QM) (CB) (DB) (DD)

Yanchep Fremantle Floreat Port North City of Secret (YP) (FM) (FL) Bouvard Cottesloe Bunbury Harbour (PB) (NC) (BY) (SH)

Partners REFERENCES • Surf Life Saving Australia Australian Bureau of Statistics (2013), Australian Demographic Statistics • Public Health and Clinical Services Division, Department 2012, ABS: Canberra of Health WA • Epidemiology Branch, Department of Health WA Australian Bureau of Statistics (2013), Standard Population for Use in Age- • National Coronial Information System Standardisation, ABS: Canberra • 29 West Australian surf life saving clubs • 17 Professional Lifeguard Services Australian Water Safety Council (2012), Australian Water Safety Strategy • Local Government Authorities with surf life saving clubs 2012-2015. Australian Water Safety Council: Sydney. and/or professional lifeguard services Epidemiology Branch (2014), Public Health and Clinical Services Division, SLSWA would like to highlight the dedication and contribution of WA Department of Health, Government of Western Australia. volunteer patrol members from the 29 WA surf life saving clubs for their work in recording invaluable data into to the Surf Guard database. Pricewaterhouse Coopers (2011), What is the economic contribution of Surf Life Saving in Australia. Pricewaterhouse Coopers: Sydney

Surf Life Saving Australia (2013), National Coastal Safety Report 2013. SLSA: Sydney

Surf Life Saving Western Australia (2014), Saving Lives and Building Great Communities Annual Review 2014. SLSWA: Perth

Surf Life Saving Western Australia (2013), WA Coastal Safety Report 42 Database. SLSWA: Perth 43 Surf Life Saving Western Australia 7 Delawney Street Balcatta WA 6021 Telephone (08) 9207 6666 Facsimile (08) 9207 6699 [email protected] www.surflifesavingwa.com.au