Several deaths by drowning – 11 persons drowned in Norway during May
Eight men, two women and one child died in drowning accidents in Norway this May. That is four more than in May last year, according to the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue (Redningsselskapet) drowning statistics.
“The wonderful weather in many parts of the country has led many more people to going out to the sea and using the beaches,” says Secretary in Redningsselskapet, General Rikke Lind.
Two of the drownings occurred in connection with swimming. A 75-years-old woman drowned in Strand Municipality in Rogaland, while a 28-years-old man drowned in Bergen. Five of the drowning accidents were boat-related. Three persons drowned from a pleasure boat, one from a professional boat and one from a canoe / kayak.
“When someone drowns it affects family, friends, colleagues and an entire community. The rescue company is working to ensure that no one drowns, by having rescue boats prepared all up and down the coast and by holding safety workshops,” says Lind.
Children
She especially encourages people to accompany all children.
“Always swim together with someone and check the conditions before you go into the water. Are you bringing children, it’s important to always keep an eye on them. Children who play by the waters edge should wear floats,” says Lind.
Men are clearly overrepresented in drowning accidents. 32 of the 37 who have died as a result of drowning so far this year are men. 24 of them were over 40 years of age, while three were under 25.
During the first five months of the year, eight more died in drowning accidents compared with the same period last year.
© NTB scanpix / #Norway Today
