Methods All drowning deaths using data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics Deaths Registrar for the period 1 July 1992 to 30 June 2002 and the National [Australian] Coroners Information System for the period 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2009 were examined to identify an unselected complete subset of drowning incidents where a rescuer drowned in attempting to effect a save.

Results There were 98 victims who drowned while attempting a rescue. Of these 69% were male. The majority (61%) were aged between 25 and 49 years. Where data concerning the location of the aquatic incident was available (n=37) beaches (35%); rivers (21%); ocean (16%) were common. The summer (42%) was the season of most rescuer fatalities.

Discussion The urge to leap into action to help someone in trouble is an altruistic impulse and often a source of pride in Australia. Sadly, a percentage (unknown) who attempt such a rescue do not return home. The drills and skills taught by lifesaving and water safety agencies provide a skill set which enables a potential rescuer to ensure both that they place themselves only at minimum risk commensurate with the circumstance; and have appropriate experience to undertake an effective rescue.