Aquatic accidents
The high level of Swiss waters threatens bathers
More than 4,000 people are victims of accidents in Swiss waters each year. Call for vigilance, with the return of good weather after the weather.
Rivers have more serious risks than lakes for bathers.
TDG
The heavy recent rains have dangerously inflated the level of rivers and Swiss lakes, which represents an increased risk for swimming while good weather returns. More than 4000 people are victims of accidents each year during leisure activities in or near waters in Switzerland, with a notable concentration during the summer months, figure Suva In a statement this Wednesday.
Although accidents occur mainly in lakes, those occurring in rivers and rivers generally lead to more serious consequences and longer absences. The underestimation of the current or the depth as well as the slides on wet surfaces are among the main causes of accidents.
Men more exposed
Statistics reveal a clear male over -representation Among the victims of aquatic accidents. Men constitute nearly two thirds of accidental people, both in lakes and near the rivers. More specifically, 55% of victims are aged 25 to 44, an over -representation that SUVA explains by a greater risk -taking during activities such as water sports or diving.
The situation is particularly worrying in summer. About ten people lose their lives every year in Swiss lakes and rivers, including 42% of cases between July and August. This represents approximately a death every two weeks during the summer.
Faced with these risks, SUVA relays the recommendations of the Swiss rescue company:
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Constantly monitor the children near the water.
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Refrain from swimming after consuming alcohol or drugs.
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Avoid jumping in water after a prolonged sunbath.
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Do not dive into troubled or unknown waters.
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Do not use pneumatic mattresses in deep water.
The suva also advises against swimming alone over long distances.
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