The Lachlan River flows right through Cowra and right on our doorstep we have one of the best inland waterways in Australia, Wyangala Dam with visitors flocking in the thousands over the summer months to enjoy water skiing, swimming and fishing.

This means we are also, unfortunately, nearing the time of year when there is an increased risk of drownings or accidental deaths in and around our waterways.

Tragically two people lost their lives at Wyangala in the past 12 months, one in December last year and another in February this year.

However, our own backyard could be what poses the biggest threat to our children.

The Royal Life Saving Society Australia’s recent report reveals that 965 children aged four and under drowned in the past 25 years.

That’s almost 39 children a year.

Another 7300 were involved in near-drowning incidents, most resulting in hospitalisation.

And swimming pools were noted as being the most dangerous locations for drownings.

The backyard swimming pool legislation that was implemented in recent years affected hundreds of homes in the region.

It was extra cost and effort to some households who had to upgrade their pool area to ensure it met the new regulations.

But it was a small price to pay considering the alternative.

Parents spend every day ensuring their children are safe.

And it is heartbreaking to think that the backyard swimming pool, the source of much joy and location for gatherings of family and friends, could also be a hazard to our children and the site of disaster.

Supervising a child when they are near the water is the best way to prevent a disaster but in the event of an emergency, it’s important to know what to do.

Any parent who owns a pool, or people who frequently have children visit theirs, should have a knowledge of CPR or water safety.

One child losing their life in a backyard drowning is one too many.

With the proper knowledge and supervision, incidents can be avoided. 

Before danger strikes, make sure your family is water wise this summer.