It takes just 20 seconds and 5 centimetres of water for a toddler to drown.

Drowning is the biggest preventable cause of death for Australian children under the age of five. It is a silent killer.

More than 70% of child drowning deaths are due to inadequate parental supervision. Constant, close and focused adult supervision is essential - never take your eyes off young children near or in water and always remain within arm’s reach.

Top safety tips:

1. Vigilant adult supervision means never letting toddlers out of sight, whether it’s at a pool, beach or during bath time. 
2. Regularly check pool fences and self-closing gates all year round to ensure they are functional. You can even complete a quick online home pool safety checklist.
3. Make sure pool fences are clear of nearby furniture or anything a young child can climb to reach the pool.
4. Safety barriers are required for spas, in-ground, indoor and above-ground swimming pools. This includes inflatable and other portable pools that can hold more than 30cm of water. Always empty wading pools after each use and store upright.
5. New swimming pools in Victoria must have a four-sided, isolated pool fence under a new national code. More information is available on the Building Commission website.
6. Take precautions around your home – always empty bath water, place a cover or mesh over backyard ponds and make sure you empty buckets and anything that contains water.  
7. Only swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags and do not rely on beach or pool lifeguards to watch children.
8. Remember that inflatable vests and flotation devices are not a substitute for adult supervision.
9. Dams are the most common location for toddler drownings on farms so restrict access to water with a fenced, child-safe play area. FarmSafe Australia has a range of resources and guides to help you create child-safe play areas.