The number of drowning accidents has increased compared to the previous year, according to the Swedish Lifesaving Society. Criticism is now being directed at the municipalities for shortcomings at municipal bathing areas, where drowning accidents have increased.
– The majority of accidents occur at a municipal bathing area. So it really stands out, says Mikael Olausson, secretary general at the Swedish Lifesaving Society.
During the month of July, 19 people died in drowning accidents in Sweden. This is an increase from 13 people during the same month last year, states the Swedish Lifesaving Association in a preliminary summary.
This despite the fact that last year was a rainy and relatively cold July with unusually few drowning accidents occurring.
– We see from the statistics in 2024 that we will have a lot of swimming accidents, it’s really something that really stands out, says Mikael Olausson, secretary general of the Swedish Lifesaving Society.
According to the organization’s forecast, the death toll may be updated with more deaths and that several are still being cared for in iva after drowning incidents.
Criticism of the municipalities
Criticism is now growing against the municipalities for shortcomings at municipal bathing areas, where drowning accidents have become increasingly common. The Swedish Lifesaving Society believes that, among other things, there is a lack of information about what dangers exist in the water and how to deal with them.
– There is a lack of information about desired behavior, swimming skills, and there is often a lack of information about how to act if an accident occurs, says Mikael Olausson, secretary general of the Swedish Lifesaving Society.
– In addition, it is justified to have lifeguards on several of the beaches that are around, especially the coasts of Sweden, he continues.