A lifebuoy, swimmers, and sunbathers at Kuusijärvi beach in Vantaa on 20 July 2025. Photo: Mikko Stig / Lehtikuva
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Drownings and serious water-related incidents have increased in Finland during July, as high temperatures and holiday crowds led to more hazardous situations at beaches and pools across the country.
As of 20 July, seven people have drowned this month, according to the Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation (FSL). Dozens of near-drowning cases and incidents requiring emergency resuscitation have also been recorded.
On Sunday, two of five individuals who fell into the sea at Yyteri Beach near Pori were confirmed dead. In Espoo last week, three children were successfully resuscitated after nearly drowning at a swimming beach and an outdoor pool. Similar cases involving children were reported in Tampere and Turku.
Kristiina Heinonen, executive director of FSL, said the sudden increase followed a relatively quiet June. That month saw eight drownings, compared to 23 in June the previous year.
“There were fewer cases in June due to the cooler weather. But with the hot conditions now, there’s been a clear surge in serious incidents,” Heinonen said.
The Finnish Lifeboat Association also reported a noticeable shift. Early summer saw about 20 percent fewer missions than in 2024. But in the past week alone, lifeboat teams were dispatched to a wide range of emergencies nationwide.
Marko Stenberg, head of operations at the association, said the rise in activity correlates with warmer conditions and increased recreational use of lakes and coastal areas.
“Many missions have taken place recently after a quiet early summer,” Stenberg said. “People need to assess their own ability and always wear life jackets.”
Stenberg stressed that life jackets remain essential for anyone on or near water, regardless of location or weather. He also pointed to alcohol use, fatigue and overconfidence as recurring factors in water-related accidents.
Heinonen said many drownings continue to occur in familiar places such as private cottage shores, especially in western and inland regions.
“Familiarity creates a false sense of safety,” she said. “People often don’t wear life jackets near their own docks or beaches because they feel comfortable in the environment.”
By the end of June, 40 people had drowned in Finland this year. Of these, 21 were men and six were women. The remaining 13 cases had not been identified by gender. Last year’s total was 88 drownings.
Authorities continue to urge the public to supervise children closely around water, avoid alcohol while swimming or boating, and use flotation devices at all times. Emergency services have also asked beachgoers to report unsafe behaviour and assist lifeguards where appropriate.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
