Epidemiological surveillance of drowning incidents. NOYADES 2021 Survey. June 1–July 25, 2021

Published on 30 July 2021

Key Points

A total of 1,200 drowning incidents occurred in France between June 1 and July 25, 2021, including 564 documented accidental drownings, of which 131 resulted in death (23%). Over the same period, the number of accidental drownings was comparable between 2018—the year of the last survey—and 2021: 568 versus 564, respectively; as was the number of accidental drownings resulting in death: 126 versus 131, respectively.
The number of accidental drownings varied by period:
- During the first half of June, the high number of accidental drownings occurred as restrictions implemented to manage the coronavirus pandemic were being lifted. This could be at least partially linked to a poor understanding of one’s physical capabilities or a decline in health following a long period of reduced activity accompanied by weight gain.
- During the first half of July 2021, the lower number of accidental drownings may be linked to weather conditions that were much less favorable for swimming (temperatures, sunshine) across much of mainland France compared to June. Weather conditions during the first half of July 2021 were also less favorable for swimming than in 2018 during the same period.
Between June 1 and July 25, 2021:
- The two age groups most represented among accidental drownings were children under 6 years of age (23%) and people aged 65 and older (24%).
- Drowning incidents resulting in death in rivers and bodies of water accounted for 45% of all accidental drowning deaths. Unlike the same period in 2018, these deaths involved not only adults but also children and adolescents.
- Accidental drownings were more frequent in coastal regions, particularly in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and Occitanie, compared to other regions.
The number of accidental drownings remains high. These findings underscore the need to continue drowning prevention efforts for all age groups, with an emphasis on gradually resuming physical activity—including swimming—while taking into account each individual’s health status.