Little lifesavers to the rescue!

Woman's Day supports water safety From the outback to the ocean

Brigid Auchettl

INLAND WATERWAY SAFETY CHECKLIST

Before you swim make sure to:

• Check conditions before entering the water.

• Enter the water slowly, feet first.

• Take care around crumbling riverbeds and dam edges.

• Avoid underwater obstacles such as rocks and branches.

• Take care when walking on unstable or slippery riverbeds.

• Avoid crossing flooded waterways.

• Avoid alcohol and drugs around water.

• Wear a lifejacket.

• Always swim with a mate.

Lining up on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, sisters Elsie and Tessa Lawson were giddy with excitement as they joined close to 100 kids at Wagga Wagga’s first Outback Lifesaver class last January.