Why you're more likely to have a heart attack than be eaten by a shark

A study by Surf Life Saving Australia over a ten year period showed heart conditions were responsible for 51.8 per cent of deaths while other major causes of death were traumatic/collision injuries (15.9 per cent) and falls (10.4 per cent). Marine creatures including sharks and jelly fish, despite their bad rap, made up only 2 per cent of all coastal deaths.

Lead researcher Sean Kelly from SLSA said this was the first study of its kind into non-drowning fatalities on the coast.

"Our research showed that males were 5.2 times more likely to die than females, with younger populations found to die disproportionately along the coast with the primary causes being falls and traumatic/collision injuries.

"Those living in or visiting rural and remote areas were also found to be at higher risk, largely due to poorer access to services and longer incident response times.

"While sharks are often top-of-mind for those visiting the beach, all marine creatures including sharks and jellyfish only made up 5 per cent of non-drowning deaths and less than 2 per cent of overall coastal deaths," he said.

Adam Weir, chief executive of SLSA said volunteer surf lifesavers took a wholistic approach to reducing risk on the coast and were highly trained to respond to a variety of situations.

"Even strong and experienced beach goers can find themselves in circumstances where they need urgent help, for instance because of a cardiac condition or traumatic injury. The number of deaths caused by cardiac conditions show the importance of CPR training and defibrillator access, which greatly increase the chances of survival in these incidents.

"All our patrolling members have been trained in these skills and responding to non-drowning incidents is a big part of what we do. I would encourage everyone to undergo CPR or First Aid training which is provided by Surf Life Saving in each State.

"Where possible, always swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags or if you are at an unpatrolled location, swim with a buddy, and make sure you know what to do if you find yourself in a dangerous situation."

Surf Life Saving Australia Safety Tips:

Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags.

Download the BeachSafe App or visit beachsafe.org.au to find a patrolled beach and for latest safety advice.

Always supervise children in, on and around water.

Avoid alcohol and drugs around water.

Wear a lifejacket when boating, rock fishing or paddling.

Check the conditions, including weather forecasts.

The research was published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health.