Every year in Finland, between 100 and 150 individuals lose their lives to drowning, with a significant spike during the summer months when about half of these tragedies occur.
According to the Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation (SUH), 92 people succumbed to drowning in Finland last year, a figure released just this past Friday. This data, sourced from media reports and public authorities, is preliminary and will be refined as the year progresses. Hence, the final count may ultimately be higher.
Comparatively, the 2022 figure reflects a slight uptick from the 88 drowning deaths recorded in 2021, but it pales alongside the alarming toll of 157 drownings reported in 2021. Over the years, Finland has witnessed a gradual decline in drowning incidents, but the statistics remain a stark reminder of the risks involved, especially during the warmer months.
Historically, summer is particularly perilous, often accounting for a notable share of fatalities. Last summer, the nation witnessed a series of high-profile drowning and near-drowning events, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance and safety awareness throughout the season.