Drowning: community aspects

One hundred and ninety-six fatal immersion accidents occurred in Geelong and district during the 20-year period, 1959 to 1978. Of 54 drownings in children aged 16 years and younger, 43 (80%) occurred in males and 33 (61%) in fresh water. All 14 drownings in children under four years of age occurred in fresh-water sites, 12 of which were about the home. Immediate and optimal resuscitative measures in such children are extremely important.