16/4/26 Lifesavers Bring Flags Down on Patrol Season, Public Urged to Stay Water Safe

16 April 2026

16/4/26

Life Saving Victoria (LSV) implores the community to remain alert to Autumn and Winter water safety risks, as the Summer Patrol Season comes to an end this Sunday. 

 Volunteer lifesavers and paid lifeguards put in an incredible effort performing 631 rescues and 1,465 first-aid interventions over the 2025/26 patrol period, which runs from November to April. 

While hundreds of lives have been saved, there were still 25 fatal drowning incidents across Victorian coastal, inland and home environments over the season. 

These figures are lower than the record numbers seen in previous seasons, underscoring the vital role our volunteers play, and also suggesting the Victorian community is taking water safety messages seriously. 

The weather may be cooling, but water safety remains a year-round issue. “Unintentional entry” incidents where people accidentally slip, trip or fall into the water are of particular concern during this period.

Unintentional entry incidents account for more than a third of all drowning fatalities in Victoria and are more likely to occur during the cooler months, increasing across Autumn, Winter and Spring when water safety risks are often underestimated.  

LSV CEO Catherine Greaves thanked volunteer lifesavers and paid lifeguards for their efforts over the season, and encouraged Victorians to remain vigilant in, on and around water. 

“Our volunteer lifesavers and paid lifeguards make an extraordinary contribution to our community, giving their time and energy to keep us safe in the water. I thank and commend them for all they have achieved this season,” Ms. Greaves said. 

“With patrols now at an end, help is further away, so it’s vital everyone plays their part to prevent drowning, and remains aware of the risks around water.

“In the cooler months, slips, trips and falls, particularly at areas like coastal rock platforms and riverbanks, remain a major water safety issue. We encourage everyone to watch their footing on wet and unstable ground, check conditions, read safety signs and wear a lifejacket when boating or rock fishing. If you see someone doing something unsafe, calmly and politely call it out. We encourage you to do this even if it’s someone you don’t know.”

For further information contact the LSV Media team: media@lsv.com.au / 03 9676 6970.