Drownings in Australia’s beaches and waterways have jumped nearly 20 per cent in the past 12 months amid the pandemic.

Director of Surf Life Saving NSW Joel Wiseman told Jim Wilson the statistic unfortunately didn’t surprise him.

He reminded beachgoers of the importance of never swimming alone, and always sticking to the red and yellow flags where they’re available.

“People want to social distance, and go to secluded areas where they’re not at risk of coming into contact with people.

“Unfortunately that is alarming for us.”

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