Only swim where there are designated safe swimming signs

It should be assumed that any water body in the saltwater crocodile’s natural range in the NT is unsafe to swim, unless signposted otherwise.

Most fatal crocodile attacks in the NT in the past 20 years have occurred when people have entered the water outside of designated swimming areas.

Managing the risks of saltwater crocodiles

The Northern Territory Government has a number of strategies in place to protect the public against saltwater crocodile attacks.

These include:

• active management in specific locations using traps, harpooning techniques, and/or surveys to find and remove crocodiles;
• educational programs to tell people about how they can keep themselves safe in crocodile habitat;
• promoting responsible behaviour in crocodile habitat.

Are there certain times of year that it is safe for me to enter the water

No, it is never 100% safe. While crocodiles may be more active during the warmer months (Wet season), when the air and water temperatures are higher they are present in Top End waterways year round.

Is it safe for my pets to swim, even if I can’t

No. Crocodiles will also prey on other animals, including pets.

Where you can swim