Deadly bathing accidents shake Europe - children and seniors affected

Deadly bathing accidents shake Europe - children and seniors affected

In a tragic weekend, there were several fatal bathing accidents in Germany and Europe, which put the dangers of water -free time back to the fore. According to ksta.de drown on Sunday a six-year German boy in a swimming pool in lido delle Nazioni, Italy, after he no longer showed up in the water after a jump. Despite rapid rescue with a helicopter, any help came too late, and the cause of death is still unclear because an autopsy was arranged.

Another sad case occurred in the Baltic Sea, where a 71-year-old vacationer from Stralsund was found lifeless in the water. Once again, resuscitation measures were in vain, and the emergency doctor could only determine death. The criminal police have investigated to clarify the exact circumstances of their death.

Shortly after the incidents: Statistics speak volumes

These tragedies are in the context of the increasing number of bathing accidents in Germany. The dlrg reported in 2023 a total of 411 deadly accidents in waters were recorded, which represents an increase at 31 compared to the previous year. This is the third year in a row with an increase in the drowned. For the first time since 2019, more than 400 victims were counted.

This year's statistics are alarming: From the beginning of May to mid -June 2024, at least 253 people have already drowned - an increase of 35 compared to the same period of the previous year. Inland waters are particularly affected, with 85-90 % of the accidents in unusual places. The DLRG also warns of the dangers in pouring waters and recommends that you only bathe in guarded areas.

demographic data and risk professionals

The DLRG has found that the vast majority of victims are men; 76 percent of drowned people fall into this category. A worrying detail is that older people with previous illnesses are particularly susceptible. So almost every third fatality was over 71 years old. The President of the DLRG, Ute Vogt, hopes that violations and deaths can be prevented for the dangers in the following warm season. Especially parents of young children should be pointed out to the risks.

Other preventive tips include wearing life jackets, a short cooling before swimming and avoiding alcohol and drugs. Since the effects of climate change can also contribute to increasing the number of drowned people in flood areas, it is all the more important to behave responsibly in this difficult time.

The tragic events and the alarming statistics confirm once again: Safe bathing pleasure requires attention and caution. This year's incidents should serve as a serious memory that water is an element that should not be underestimated.