Water safety plea as drowning numbers soar

Authorities are pleading with swimmers to be careful around water this Easter holiday period after an alarming spike in drowning deaths.

Close to 100 people have drowned and many more rushed to hospital nationally, according to Royal Life Saving.

The warning comes as the mercury is tipped to soar along Australia's south-coast in the coming days.

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Research by the organisation has revealed 123 people have drowned during the Easter holidays period over the past 20 years, an average of six drowning fatalities per four-day long weekend.

"Many people head to regional locations for their holidays to swim, boat or paddle in rivers, lakes and dams which often appear calm on the surface but may have unseen dangers," executive officer Justin Scarr said.

"Be aware that your favourite spot might have changed significantly since you last visited. If travelling away from home, pay attention to and check the warning signs and keep an eye on the weather and water conditions, even if you have been that location before.

"Everyone needs to wear a lifejacket when boating, fishing or paddling. It could save your life."

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It's been one of the worst summers for drowning deaths across the country on record.

Three people were killed yesterday after their fishing boat capsized off South Australian coast.

A day later - a 23-year-old man was killed after swimming in waters of Lake Parramatta in Sydney's west.

While another man died in similar circumstances in waters off Victoria's east on Monday.

A 26-year-old international student was also killed while swimming in rough surf with two others near Apollo Bay on March 17.