Public urged to Respect the Water as 2024 accidental water-related fatality data released
The National Water Safety Forum (NWSF), hosted by RoSPA, has released its Water Incident Database (WAID) Report for 2024, which showed that there were 193 accidental deaths in the UK.
Of the 193 accidental fatalities, 136 were in England, 33 in Scotland, 18 in Wales and six were in Northern Ireland. 84 per cent of deaths were among males and inland waterways, such as rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs and quarries, continue to be the leading locations for accidental drowning, accounting for 61 per cent of deaths.
Most of the 2024 fatalities occurred in warm weather, with 28 in May, with 25 in August and 21 in July. The National Water Safety Forum is reminding everyone to enjoy the water safely by being aware of the risks, and by knowing how to help themselves and others in an emergency.
While air temperatures may be high, open water temperatures can remain dangerously cold – many inland waters such as lakes and rivers remain below 16°C all year round, which is when water is considered hazardous for cold water shock.
Cold water shock is the body’s response to sudden immersion in cold water, leading to an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing and loss of swimming ability. This can result in drowning, especially if the person falls into the water unexpectedly.
Professor Mike Tipton, Chair of the NWSF and leading expert in water safety and cold water shock, said: “Each one of these fatalities represents a tragedy and the loss of many years of life, all those involved have my deepest condolences. The National Water Safety Forum will continue to work tirelessly to reduce drownings in the UK through data-driven education, interventions, communication and campaigns.
“Because it is clear that drowning can occur anywhere and to anyone, I urge the general public to visit the National Water Safety Forum’s Respect the Water website to learn about water safety, and how to prevent themselves and others from drowning. A small amount of time devoted to drowning prevention could save many lives.”
Respect the Water advice includes:
If you find yourself in trouble in the water, float to live:
- Tilt your head back with your ears submerged
- Relax and try to breathe normally
- Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat
- It’s OK if your legs sink, we all float differently
- Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.
If you see someone else in trouble in the water this summer, remember Call, Tell, Throw:
- Call 999 to get help
- Tell the struggling person to float on their back
- Throw them something that floats, such as a life ring, inflatable toy, or bottle.
The NWSF will be promoting the Respect the Water campaign throughout the summer, including a campaign focused on how to float to coincide with World Drowning Prevention Day on 25th July.
To view and download the WAID 2024 report, visit the NWSF website.
For more information about the Respect the Water campaign visit respectthewater.com