Rise in water-related deaths in Wales
55 people died in 2023 - according to latest figures.
Latest figures show there has been a rise in the number of water related deaths in Wales in the last year.
55 people lost their lives in 2023 with a review now underway.
Water Safety Wales say there's a need to "redouble efforts" to tackle the growing number of drowning incidents.
Figures show half of all accidental drownings happen during recreational activities like walking or running where people didn't expect to enter the water.
WSW says there is a 'critical need' for enhanced public awareness and education around water safety - as drowning remains a growing public health issue.
Chris Cousens, Chair of Water Safety Wales, said: “We need to redouble our efforts to tackle the growing number of drowning incidents in Wales. This review highlights the importance of our ongoing work and the critical need for enhanced public awareness and education around water safety.”
Huw Irranca-Davies, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, said: “This is an important moment to reflect on what more can be done to halt the trend in water related fatalities and incidents. Water Safety Wales and its partners are building the foundations to achieve the aims of the Wales Drowning Prevention Strategy. To create a safer water environment we must heighten awareness and cultivate a culture of prevention. We can only do this by working together.”
The report highlights significant demographic shifts in accidental drownings:
• Gender and Age: Men still account for most accidental fatalities, though their proportion has decreased from 89 per cent to 76 per cent. The highest fatality rate is now among men aged 20-29.
• Location: Incidents are almost evenly split between coastal (51 per cent) and inland (49 per cent) waters, reflecting a shift from previous years when coastal drownings were more common.
• Activities: Half of all accidental drownings occur during recreational activities, while 43 per cent involve everyday actions where people did not expect to enter the water, like walking or running near water.