This week (28 May), the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF) released the latest annual drowning figures from the Water Incident Database (WAID), which sadly reported 193 accidental water-related fatalities across the UK in 2024 – with May seeing the highest number of fatalities, as 28 lives were tragically lost.

The 2024 data highlights that 61% of these accidental drownings occurred in inland waterways – including rivers, lakes, canals, and reservoirs. These are locations many people visit regularly for recreation, often without realising the potential dangers they pose. Furthermore, 84% of those who lost their lives were male, continuing a concerning trend in water safety statistics.

Dave Candler, CEO of STA, said: “We echo the statement from Professor Mike Tipton, Chair of the NWSF, that each one of these fatalities represents a tragedy, and we send our deepest condolences to the families affected.”

“As a member of the NWSF and a charity committed to saving lives, STA will continue working to raise awareness and educate people about how to stay safe in and around water – with our members, through our learn to swim programmes, which teach water safety at every stage, and through our national charity campaigns and industry partnerships, including with the RNLI.”

With the UK already experiencing record hot temperatures, and warmer months still ahead with more people expected to be near or in the water, it is essential that we all continue to educate the public that air temperature does not reflect water temperature. Even in summer, open water can remain below 16°C, cold enough to cause cold water shock – a dangerous reaction that causes involuntary gasping, rapid breathing, and loss of control in the water. This can be fatal, especially if someone enters the water unexpectedly, and is why Float to Live is a key lifesaving message, and one that STA with the RNLI will continue to push over the coming months.

We must also continue to educate people about all the hidden risks and encourage everyone to Respect the Water by taking simple but potentially life-saving precautions:

• Stay away from the edge when walking, running or cycling near inland waterways
• Never swim alone or under the influence of alcohol
• Always check water conditions and temperatures before entering
• Learn what to do in an emergency: Float to Live and Call, Tell, Throw

“Let’s work together to raise awareness, especially as the summer months approach, and ensure everyone enjoys the water safely,” added Dave.

To learn more and access water safety resources, visit www.respectthewater.com or log into STA Online to download all of our free resources, including our Water Safety Booklet for children, new Float to Live lesson plans and summer activity sheets.