Safe boating practices are essential. When fishing, you need to be aware of changing conditions. Fence swimming pools as nearly half the children that drown under 5 years of age do so in backyard swimming pools.

Always swim between the red and yellow flags at the beach. Make sure you never swim alone and always supervise children at the beach. Check here for a list of patrolled beaches.

Water familiarisation and learn to swim classes are a vital skill for all ages, especially children. Ensure that children are directly supervised at all times. Read the pool safety checklist.

Water safety nomination form - nominations close 11 September 2006

Rock fishing safety brochure

Keep Watch water safety campaign

A major water safety campaign targeting parents of children aged 0-5 has been launched.

Free armbands aim to prevent drownings

Parents supervising their children near water at outdoor gatherings are being encouraged to wear an armband in a bid to reduce drownings. An initiative of The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, the aim of the fluorescent armband is to ensure at least one adult present takes responsibility for watching children at all times.

The hospital is giving away its Water Watcher Bands free this Summer to NSW residents. Call (02) 9845 3589, visit www.chw.edu.au/parents/kidshealth or email kidsh@chw.edu.au to get your arm band.

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