According to data released by Royal Lifesaving Australia 507 toddlers under 5-years-old have drowned since 2003 and nearly half were less than one-year-old.

This includes 12 NT children aged under five.

However, this is actually a nationwide decrease of toddler drownings of 74% since 2002.

The data marks the start of Royal Lifesaving's 'Keep Watch' campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the risks of child drowning.

In the NT, 67 per cent of toddler drownings happened in a swimming pool.

Royal Lifesaving Australia chief executive officer Justin Scarr said these deaths have long reaching effects but are preventable.

"Drowning deaths in young children are wholly preventable and have a huge impact on a family.

"We also know that children who survive a drowning incident often experience lifelong health issues, which in some cases, may lead to premature death."

"The emotional toll this has on children, their parents and carers is terribly sad."

As part of the Keep Watch campaign, Mr Scarr had simple suggestions to reduce the risk of child drowning.

"Royal Life Saving is asking all parents to Supervise, Restrict, Teach and Respond," he said.

"It is also essential that people have well maintained pool fences and pool gates that are checked regularly to make sure they are not faulty and never prop them open."

"Active adult supervision prevents child drowning."

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