Only swim in safe designated areas
If a waterway is not designated safe for swimming then it may be inhabited by crocodiles. If you do not see a designated safe swimming sign, you should not take the risk of entering the water.
Not all waterways in the Top End can be sign posted, therefore do not assume that without a sign there is no danger. If there is no sign, then the area may not be safe or free from crocodiles. So remember, if there is no sign, do not swim in the area.
All fatal crocodile attacks in the NT in the past 20 years have occurred when people have entered the water outside of designated swimming areas.
View list of safe places to swim.
Always Be Aware of Crocodiles in the Top End
- Crocodiles are common in our waterways.
- Crocodiles are dangerous and attacks can be fatal.
- People live and participate in recreational activities in or near waterways where crocodiles live, bringing people and crocodiles closer together.
- Crocodiles move around throughout the year.
Territorians can not become complacent. You need to be cautious every time you go near or in a waterway in the Top End.
Enjoy the waterways in safety
- Only swim in safe designated areas - if there is no safe swimming sign, do not swim.
- Always obey warning signs, they are there for your protection.
- Don’t feed, harass or encourage crocodiles.
- Avoid the waters edge wherever possible.
- Don’t paddle, clean fish, prepare food or wash at the waters edge.
- Stand at least 5 metres back from the waters edge when fishing.
- Don’t hang arms or legs out of a boat when on the water.
- Don’t dispose of food scraps and fish offal in the water, use bins or bury at least 2 metres from the waters edge.
- Stay away from crocodile slide marks and nest mounds.
- Be extra vigilant at night.
Be aware and act with caution. Do not place yourself at risk of a crocodile attack. Know the risks and make informed, sensible choices.
Appropriate CROCWISE behaviours are dependent on the level of risk and the risks in any area are dependent on natural factors such as crocodile populations and crocodile management activities in the area. That risk is increasing due to changes in both crocodile and human populations.
Many locations actively promote crocodile sighting and watching, and the crocodile is an iconic animal that forms a rich aspect of the visitor experience when exploring the NT.