ONE third of drowning deaths in Australia last year were in people aged 55 and over, the Royal Life Saving Society's national report shows.
Seniors made up 89 of the 271 drowning deaths across the country - the highest figure of any age group.
NSW, Victoria and Western Australia all recorded increases against the 10 year average in this age group, while Queensland showed a 16 per cent reduction compared with the 10-year average.
The largest increase in drownings occurred in the 45-54 years age group, which recorded a 26 per cent jump on the 10-year average.
Just over two thirds of the people in that age group who had consumed alcohol prior to drowning had a blood alcohol content four times the legal limit or higher.
Royal Life Saving chief executive Justin Scarr said for older people, being aware of changes in fitness and skills could save their lives, particularly if they had not been in the water for some time.
People over 65 were more likely to be involved in flood-related drowning incidents and accounted for 46 per cent of all flood-related deaths.
Using cars was the leading activity prior to drowning in flood waters, and the Royal Life Saving Society is now working with Griffith University to look at why people drive through potentially dangerous flood water.
The society is urging seniors to stay safe by:
* Knowing your limitations - keep track of fitness levels regularly so you have the strength to get out of trouble.
* Be aware of medical conditions - conditions including cardiac issues, dementia and seizures can affect your ability in the water.
* Don't drink when on or in the water - Alcohol and water don't mix, particularly when other medications are also a factor.
* Wear a life jacket - A large number of drownings in the over 55 age group could have been prevented if people were wearing a life jacket while boating or fishing.
* Learn life saving skills - Learn the skills to deal with emergencies through courses including the Society's Grey Medallion and First Aid and CPR programs.
Grandparents have also been urged to watch out for small children, with the report showing 26 deaths in children under five over the past year.
About 80 per cent of those occurred due to a fall into water.
Positively, there were no drowning fatalities in children aged 10-17, although the society said learning swimming and water safety skills during the school years remained critical.
Inland waterways claimed the largest number of lives, with 99 deaths recorded in rivers, creeks, lakes and dams.
"Active adult supervision and restricting access to water through properly installed and correctly maintained pool fences are key strategies to reduce these tragic child drowning incidents," Mr Scarr said.
More information at www.royallifesaving.com.au
