Water Safety Wales issues warning after 18 drown in 2024
Most of these fatalities occurred during the warmer months, with May, June, and July accounting for half of the deaths.
Water Safety Wales has issued a warning about the dangers of cold water shock, which can lead to drowning.
Chris Cousens, chair of Water Safety Wales, said: "These latest figures on drowning deaths in Wales are deeply concerning.
"Each statistic represents a life lost and a family devastated.
"I strongly encourage everyone to visit the Respect the Water website to learn about water safety."
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Pembrokeshire Herald
5 days ago
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Drowning danger rises in warm Welsh weather, warn safety experts
18 accidental water deaths already recorded in 2024 AS TEMPERATURES rise and more families flock to rivers, lakes and coastlines, Water Safety Wales is warning of an increased risk of drowning across the country. New figures released this week show that 18 people in Wales have already died in accidental water-related incidents in 2024, with officials warning that the real total could rise once coroners report on 19 additional cases. May 2024, officially recorded as the hottest May on record, also saw a notable increase in drownings compared to the previous year. Experts say the warmer air often masks the deadly danger posed by cold water temperatures. Despite the sunshine, open water in Wales – including rivers, lakes and even the sea – often remains below 16°C year-round. Entering cold water suddenly can trigger cold water shock, a powerful involuntary reaction that causes people to gasp, panic, and lose the ability to swim. Chris Cousens, Chair of Water Safety Wales, said: 'These latest figures on drowning deaths in Wales are deeply concerning. Each statistic represents a life lost and a family devastated. With the summer months approaching, it's crucial for everyone to prioritise water safety.' Data from the National Water Safety Forum's 2024 Water Incident Database (WAID) reveals that the majority of accidental drownings in Wales occurred in May, June, July, and November. Coastal waters were the most common location for fatalities, accounting for 56% of deaths, but rivers, lakes and reservoirs also posed significant risks. Recreational activities accounted for 67% of accidental deaths, including boating, angling, wild swimming and walking near water. Men continue to be disproportionately affected, making up 82% of fatalities, with the most at-risk age groups being 20–29, 50–59, and 70–79. Across the UK, 193 people died in accidental water-related incidents so far in 2024. Of these, 136 were in England, 33 in Scotland, 18 in Wales, and 6 in Northern Ireland. Water Safety Wales is backing the National Water Safety Forum's Respect The Water campaign, which offers clear, practical advice aimed at saving lives. Members of the public are being urged to remember two key responses: If you fall into water: Float to live. Tilt your head back, with ears submerged Move your arms slowly and try to relax Once the cold water shock passes, shout for help If you see someone in trouble: Call, Tell, Throw. Call 999 immediately Tell them to float on their back Throw something that floats, such as a life ring or even a plastic bottle Water Safety Wales will continue promoting the campaign through the summer, with a particular focus around World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July. For more details and life-saving tips, visit
South Wales Argus
29-05-2025
- South Wales Argus
Water Safety Wales issues warning after 18 drown in 2024
Most of these fatalities occurred during the warmer months, with May, June, and July accounting for half of the deaths. Water Safety Wales has issued a warning about the dangers of cold water shock, which can lead to drowning. Chris Cousens, chair of Water Safety Wales, said: "These latest figures on drowning deaths in Wales are deeply concerning. "Each statistic represents a life lost and a family devastated. "I strongly encourage everyone to visit the Respect the Water website to learn about water safety."
Pembrokeshire Herald
29-04-2025
- Pembrokeshire Herald
RNLI urges Pembrokeshire beachgoers to stay safe as hot weather arrives
THE RNLI is urging people visiting Pembrokeshire's beaches this Bank Holiday weekend to stay safe, as high temperatures are forecast across Wales. Although temperatures are expected to cool slightly by the Early May Bank Holiday (3–5 May), the lifesaving charity is preparing for a surge in visitors to the coast. To help everyone enjoy the seaside safely, the RNLI is offering the following advice: Choose a lifeguarded beach where possible. Always swim between the red and yellow flags. Check tide times and weather forecasts before setting out. If you get into trouble, remember to 'Float to Live'. If you see someone in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. In Pembrokeshire, RNLI lifeguards will be patrolling Whitesands Beach and Tenby South Beach from 10:00am to 6:00pm across the Bank Holiday weekend. Chris Cousens, RNLI Water Safety Lead for the region, said: 'If you are heading to the coast this weekend, we highly recommend choosing a lifeguarded beach and swimming between the red and yellow flags. These areas are monitored by lifeguards and are the safest parts of the beach. 'While the air may feel warm, sea temperatures remain low and can cause cold water shock. We urge beachgoers to enter the water slowly to acclimatise, consider wearing a wetsuit, and avoid swimming alone. 'If you find yourself in difficulty, Float to Live—tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax, and try to control your breathing. Use your hands to stay afloat until help arrives or you are able to swim to safety. RNLI lifeguard service (Pic: RNLI) 'Beach visitors should also check tide times and weather conditions before setting off. Big spring tides this week mean the tide comes in quickly, increasing the risk of being cut off.' Chris added: 'If you spot someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. We want everyone to enjoy our beautiful Pembrokeshire coastline safely, so please share these safety tips with friends and family.' Beach patrols are currently limited, as it is outside of peak season. Visitors are encouraged to check the latest patrol times and season dates for RNLI-lifeguarded beaches at: RNLI lifeboats based around the Pembrokeshire coast continue to operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, ready to respond to emergencies at sea.
