River safety
Make sure you enjoy your trip to the River Murray by staying safe. Most importantly, do your research on the places you’ll be visiting so you can be best prepared.
Here are some useful links to safety information to help you get started. Your safety is our concern but ultimately your responsibility.
Staying safe and healthy during River Murray floods
For the latest information about staying safe and healthy during River Murray floods, including boating and other activity restrictions, visit the sa.gov.auwebsite.
For near real-time information on current SA SES warnings, incidents and, when available, locations to collect sandbags, visit the SA SES website.
You can also follow the SA State Emergency Service Facebook page.
View the following current and forecast water levels at monitored sites between Lock 6 and Lake Alexandrina, which are updated daily.
River Murray flows
The weekly River Murray Flow Report provides information about water levels, flow rates and barrage operations as well as any navigation issues or construction activities.
Subscribe to receive the River Murray Flow report each week.
Safety on the water
If you are travelling to the river area remember to exercise caution. Currents are often stronger than they appear.
When swimming, always wear a life jacket and only swim in areas that are slow-flowing and free of submerged hazards. Find out more about respecting the river on the Royal Life Saving website.
When travelling on houseboats or smaller watercraft, it’s advisable to contact commercial houseboat operators for advice. Alternatively visit Destination Riverland's website for further information.
It’s never a good idea to mix water and alcohol. Please be mindful when considering drinking in the area.
National Parks and Camping
We’ve compiled some safety tips to help make your National Parks experience a safe and happy one, and many can be applied to any visit to the river. Remember to always take direction from our park rangers as they have the greatest knowledge of local conditions.
Check the national parks website to find up to date information on park closures.
Also remember to Fight the Bite to avoid mosquito bites becoming something more serious.
Hazards
A hazard map and related information for the River Murray, Murray Lakes and Lake Bonney is maintained by the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure.
A number of maps showing the location of hazards in Lakes Alexandrina and Albert have also been developed by the department.
Recreational boating
The South Australian Recreational Boating Safety Handbook provides information about licensing and registration requirements, planning and preparation, safety equipment, navigation, protecting the environment and more.
Speed limits are in place along sections of the River Murray for the safety of all water users.
Riverbank collapse
Riverbank collapse is more likely to occur during times of low water levels. There have been no reported incidents of riverbank collapse since early 2011.
Blue green algae
The River Murray is routinely monitored for blue green algae. If blooms occur, the Department for Health and Ageing or Local Government issue information and advice to the public.
