Australian Red Cross and Poolwerx are sending a sobering message this April Fools’ Day that drowning is no laughing matter after new data reveals there were 339 drowning related deaths in 2022.
Surprisingly, children are not the most at-risk of drowning, with the Royal Life Saving Australia 2022 report finding the largest cohort of lives lost in our waterways was people aged between 65 and 74,
showing that drowning does not discriminate.
CPR can mean the difference between a life lost and a life saved, so Poolwerx and Australian Red Cross are again joining forces for April Pools Day.
The initiative grants Australians access to a free First Aid Fundamentals online course with CPR training this month.
Over eight years of April Pools Day, Poolwerx and Australian Red Cross have provided CPR training to more than 15,000 people with participation growing every year.
Poolwerx Chief Executive Officer Nic Brill said the initiative is a timely reminder to all Australians that learning first aid skills can help people of all ages, genders, and races.
“There’s been a devastating 15 per cent increase in drownings in 2022 so we’re proud to continue partnering with Australian Red Cross to provide access to these life saving skills,” He Brill said.
“The research shows us it’s no longer just about protecting our children – it’s your parents, grandparents, elderly neighbours and friends – anywhere, anytime. This course only takes 30 mins to
complete, and could make the difference to saving someone’s life.”
Poolwerx Ambassador and former Olympian Libby Trickett said water safety is everyone’s responsibility and a first aid course could help you save a life.
“With drowning deaths on the rise, we all need to take responsibility for water safety and learning these important skills like CPR could mean the difference between a life lost or a life saved,” she said.
“A life lost to drowning isn’t just one person. It impacts friends, families and the surrounding community, so we all need to be doing our part to reduce drowning related deaths.
“Knowing CPR gives me the peace of mind that if something awful was to happen in the pool with my kids, family, parents or friends I have the skills to help them.”
Australian Red Cross first aid trainer Russell Crawford said learning first aid and CPR is a lifelong skill for everyone, not just parents.
“A person is four times more likely to survive drowning if administered CPR so it is absolutely vital that every day Aussies are equipped with these skills,” he said.
“We’re usually so focused on protecting our children from drowning, but knowing older Australians are the most at risk just shows why it’s important the whole community learns these potentially lifesaving skills.
“This online course only takes 30 mins and is valued at $60, so get together with your friends, family or colleagues and take an important step in helping to protect Australian lives.”
Sign up for Red Cross First Aid Fundamentals online course between April 1 and April 14 at Poolwerx’ AprilPoolsDay.com.au website.
