With summer holidays approaching, rural water corporations Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) and Southern Rural Water (SRW) are urging all members of the community and visitors to the region to be as vigilant around channels and farm dams as they would be around major roads and highways.
According to G-MW General Manager Operations Kevin Preece G-MW's channels, like major roads and highways, are vital delivery routes designed to deliver water as efficiently as possible. They are not safe locations to play or swim.
"We don't allow our children, pets or stock out onto a busy road - we need to take the same attitude to our farm dams and channels," warned Mr Preece.
Southern Rural Water General Manager Water Supply, John Tesoriero, said the campaign represented an ongoing effort to increase the awareness of water safety in regional areas.
"The reality is all channels and dams are dangerous. Many dangers lurk beneath the surface and water levels can change rapidly. Pipes, siphons, rocks and debris can be hidden below the surface and can injure people, pets and stock," said Mr Tesoriero
"Irrigation channels are the backbone of our agricultural industry, not a playground for children, animals and pets," said Mr Tesoriero
The water corporations are encouraging members of the community to swim at appropriate swimming locations including local public pools and to adopt safe swimming practices including not swimming alone or while intoxicated.
For further information on water safety and summer activities for children, visit G-MW's website at www.g-mwater.com.au/watersafety or Southern Rural Water's website at http://www.srw.com.au/
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Media Contact: Sheree Fitzgerald
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