Be Water Safe This Summer at Wyangala Dam

“Freedom Day” last Monday saw camper trailers and boats begin to descend on Wyangala Dam to snag the first taste of warmer weather.

With the long weekend being the first of many popular days on the calendar for camping and boating enthusiasts, we are being reminded to exercise water safety and remain alert while swimming, boating or camping on the water. According to the Royal Flying Doctors Service one third of all drownings are in outer regional or remote areas with 41% of drownings involving alcohol.

Shockingly 80% of drownings are men aged between 25-34. After enduring the rough rollercoaster of the pandemic, we can be forgiven for wanting to sleep under the stars and swim beneath the warm sun. How-ever, being prepared is crucial to remaining safe.

If you are boating, always ensure there are adequate life jackets for the number of people onboard, and don’t drive or ski under the influence of alcohol. Many locals have experienced the notorious weather events that can occur in the blink of an eye at Wyangala, so it is important to pay attention to your surroundings while swimming as the water can quickly become choppy and cold.

Due to the dam having been at such low levels there are a number of hazards lying just beneath the service, such as full sized trees, rocks and debris that may be floating around from the constant flow of water entering the dam. Never swim alone and always supervise children in or around the edge of the water.

Brushing up on your CPR and first aid skills is wise if you’re planning to visit the dam often this summer, not only for an emergency in the water, but also snake bites and injuries from the rugged terrain. It is always absolutely imperative to remember that there’s little to no phone service in the event of an emergency and first responders can be up to 30 mins away.

Being prepared and staying vigilant will help ensure you and your loved ones avoid a life threatening situation, and instead enjoy all that Wyangala has to offer as the summer months kick off.

By Jamie-Lee Farley

• Topics:
• Living and Lifestyle
• Water Safety