A warning to stay safe around waterways and beaches this Easter break in an effort to put a stop to drownings on the long weekend.

Life Saving Victoria said five people drowned during the break in the past two years.

It follows the drowning death of a toddler in a backyard pool earlier this week.

Jennifer Roberts from Life Saving Victoria said these deaths were solemn reminders of the need to be vigilant about water safety.

“Active supervision of children is so important when there is water present in the home, even if you are not actively engaging in water activities,” she said.

“Children are curious, and water can be a natural fascination for toddlers."

Ms Roberts said Easter is traditionally a busy time of year for the state’s beaches and inland waterways.

“In 2010 there were four drowning deaths over the Easter break, followed by another one drowning death over Easter last year,” she said.

“It’s estimated over 59,000 people visited patrolled beaches in Victoria over Easter last year and our volunteer lifesavers performed 25 rescues over this period. "

She said locals need to be extra cautious after severe flooding across the state.

“Flood water washes lots of debris downstream and can change and increase underwater hazards, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries," she said.