Australian parents often believe that Winter is “the safe season” when water risks die down. But the data tells a different story as drowning risks continue through Winter. ​
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Here are the most common myths about Winter & Water Safety and the facts every family needs to know.​

Myth 1: “Drowning risks are low in Winter.”​

Reality: Drowning happens all year round, and winter is surprisingly dangerous.​

Royal Life Saving data shows:​

  • Over the past 10 years, 470 drowning deaths occurred in winter an average of 47 per year.​
  • July alone accounts for 39% of winter drowning incidents. ​

Winter holidays, hotel pools, unfamiliar environments, and reduced vigilance create quiet but deadly risk.​

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Myth 2: “My child can already swim they’ll be fine for a few months off.”​

Reality: Skills regress fast without regular practice.​

  • 31% of children are not enrolled in lessons, and many have weaker survival ability than parents realise. ​
  • 45% of children have poor or only average floating ability a critical lifesaving skill. ​

A child who “could swim last summer” may be unsafe by spring.

Myth 3: “Drowning is noisy I’ll hear it.”​

Reality: It is most often silent.​

Young children, especially babies, do not call out for help.​
Drowning can occur quickly and quietly, even in a few centimetres of water. ​

Supervision must be constant, active, and within arm’s reach.​

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Myth 4: “We don’t go to the beach in winter, so we don’t need lessons.”​

Reality: Most drownings in young children happen close to home.​

Under‑5’s drown in:​

  • swimming pools​
  • baths​
  • creeks and streams​
  • lakes and dams​
  • even nappy buckets and fishponds​

All remain present in Winter. ​

Myth 5: “Winter illnesses make swimming unsafe.”​​

Reality: Warm indoor pools reduce illness risk.​​

Pools are heated, air‑controlled, and well‑sanitised.​​
Regular activity also supports stronger immunity and emotional well‑being especially during colder months. ​

Winter may cool the weather, but it doesn’t cool water risks. Babies and young children need consistent exposure, practice, and supervision and Winter lessons ensure they stay safer all year long.​

Enrolling your kids in our swimming program will ensure they’re water safe all year round.  
Get in touch with your local JUMP! Swim school today, to get started!