Water safety course specially designed for older Australian is a life saver

Well why not become a Grey Medallion holder?

Research shows that adults and older adults perceive themselves as a low risk group when it comes to water safety, yet it's a surprising and somewhat scary statistic that adults aged between 45 and 65 have one of the highest age-specific fatal drowning rates in Victoria.

Now Moreland City Council in Victoria is a planning on doing something to raise the water safety skills of its older residents with a fun eight-week program leading to the Royal Life Saving Victoria's prestigious Grey Medallion.

Starting on July 29 at the Coburg Leisure Centre, participants will be put through their paces in learning about water safety, emergency skills, first aid and CPR.

Some lessons are in the heated pool and while participants don't need to be able to swim they do need to be confident enough to leave the poolside and walk out into the water. Other lessons are on dry land.

The lessons are designed for the over 55s but all adults can take part. A range of personal survival techniques will be explored as well as skills to help deal with an emergency situation.

"The program has the potential to save lives," said aquatic coordinator Courtney Webb. "We see this as something the community really needs."

Classes will run on Monday afternoons from 1-3pm and cost $6 a session. Participants can sign up for the whole course and achieve their Grey Medallion or can just do individual classes.

Bookings essential 03-9354-3504, www.activemoreland.com.au