Fiji’s drowning rate per capita is higher than Australia which has a population of more than 24 million people.
Director for Water Safety Council John Philp confirms that Fiji’s official drowning rate is 6.3 deaths per 100,000 population while Australia’s is 1.4.
Philp says studies have shown that 66% of the victims were found in either villages or rural settings.
He says one way in which we can reduce the enormous rate is by teaching children to swim and educating them on the dangers and controlling measures that can be used.
Philp says life style change is also needed and more access to water sports for children will build the capacities to identify dangers.
He is asking for water sports in schools through coordinated programs.
Philp says the government should also provide beach and river areas for swimming which are sign posted.
He says more than 50% of the drowning victims were under 25 years of age.
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