Rise in drowning incidents: Expert urges water safety awareness

Tiffany Miguel, director of Splash Aquademy Swimming School, urges families to take water safety seriously following a recent increase in drowning incidents.

With school holidays around the corner and more people spending time around pools, dams, rivers and beaches, Miguel warns that the risk of drowning rises significantly – often when it is least expected.

“Drowning is a tragedy that happens quickly and quietly. In many cases, there are no dramatic splashes or calls for help. It can occur in seconds, sometimes within arm’s reach of others. Many of these incidents are preventable. These tragedies affect entire families and communities,” she says.

“Behind every statistic is a real person – a child with a future, a parent, a friend, someone deeply loved. These incidents remind us how fragile life can be and how important it is to respect water and exercise caution,” she adds.

Miguel stresses that while water is a source of joy, relaxation, and recreation, it also carries serious risks if proper safety measures are not followed.

“Water must always be approached with awareness and responsibility. Many drowning incidents happen during ordinary moments – a family outing, a gathering with friends, or children playing near water. That is why vigilance is so important.”

She reminds the public of three critical water safety principles:

• Nothing replaces adequate supervision
Children should never be left unattended near water, not even for a few seconds. Drowning can happen silently and very quickly. Active supervision means keeping your eyes on children at all times, staying within arm’s reach of young swimmers, and avoiding distractions such as mobile phones or conversations. Even a brief moment of inattention can have devastating consequences.

• Never swim intoxicated
Alcohol and water do not mix. Intoxication affects judgment, balance, and reaction time, making it much harder to respond effectively in an emergency. Many drowning incidents involve alcohol, particularly among adults who underestimate the risks. Staying sober while swimming or supervising others is one of the simplest ways to reduce risk.

• Never swim alone
Swimming alone significantly increases the danger in an emergency. Sudden cramps, exhaustion, cold-water shock, or unexpected medical issues can occur at any time. Having someone nearby who can assist or call for help can mean the difference between life and death. Always ensure someone else is present when entering the water.

Miguel also encourages families to talk openly about water safety with their children and to set clear rules about behaviour around pools, dams, and other water environments. Teaching respect for water and reinforcing safe habits from a young age can play a vital role in preventing tragedies.

“Every life lost to drowning leaves an enormous void for the people who loved that person. These are moments that change families forever. If raising awareness about water safety can prevent even one tragedy, then it is a message worth sharing again and again.”

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She emphasises that drowning prevention starts with simple, responsible choices – staying alert, supervising carefully, and making safe decisions around water.

“The message is simple but powerful. Be present. Be responsible. Look out for one another. Water safety is not just a guideline – it is a commitment to protecting lives,” she concludes.