Quantifying rip current-related drowning deaths and exposure on Australian beaches

Rip currents are the leading coastal hazard on Australian beaches and a significant contributor to coastal drowning. This comprehensive study explored the long-term epidemiology and exposure-based mortality rates of Australian rip current drowning deaths, with the purpose of informing rip-related education efforts to reduce coastal drowning risk.

A retrospective descriptive analysis of rip current drowning deaths between 1 July 2004 and 30 June 2023 was conducted, and rip current involvement was determined using data triangulation methods (incident narrative, beach imagery and expert opinion). Temporal trends were examined using Joinpoint regression, while Australian population and coastal participation data were used to calculate mortality rates.

407 rip current drowning deaths were identified (21 deaths/year); an exposure-based mortality rate of 0.11/1 million coastal visits. Incidents predominantly involved males (85%), 20-34 years (38%), occurred in regional/remote areas (59%) and in the presence of others (80%). For every rip current drowning death, an estimated 2449 people were rescued by someone else and 8171 individuals self-rescued.

Despite small reductions in the rate of rip current drowning among males, little overall progress has been seen in attempts to decrease the mortality burden. Future efforts will require an expanded approach, beyond traditional means.

Rip currents remain a significant public health threat and the number one coastal hazard contributing to preventable mortality along Australia's coastline.

Improved rip current education approaches, development and evaluation are needed to direct effective messaging to at-risk groups.