AOD a major factor in coastal deaths

Alcohol and other drugs (AOD) in Australia account for more than 4,186 deaths per annum and have a combined economic loss of $23.5 billion to the community.¹ And with the release of a new report from Surf Life Saving Australia², it is evident alcohol and other drugs also play a major factor in coastal deaths around Australia.

The report analysis a wide range of factors including rip currents, alcohol and drug use and death due to an injury. What may be surprising for some is that whilst rip currents accounted for 11% of deaths, alcohol use (BAC greater than 0.050) accounted for a much higher percentage at 54%.

Key Facts:

• From 2004 – 2020 average of 31 deaths per year with alcohol and / or other drugs in their system
• 20-29 year olds make up 20% of all deaths
• Males make up a staggering 85%
• 72% Australian born / 93% Australian residents
• Average blood alcohol concentration of 0.190, nearly four times the legal car diving limit for a full license holder

Incident Type:

Demographics:

References:

1 – Australian Institute of Health & Welfare

2 – Coastal Safety Brief, Alcohol and Drugs – Surf Life Saving Australia