Germany Records Over 400 Drowning Deaths in 2024, Highest Since 2019

The DLRG reports a third consecutive annual increase in drowning fatalities, with most incidents occurring in unguarded inland waters during the summer months.

• In 2024, 411 people drowned in Germany, marking a rise of 31 fatalities compared to 2023 and the first time since 2019 that the total exceeded 400.
• The majority of drownings occurred in inland waters, with 146 deaths in lakes and ponds and 161 in rivers and streams, highlighting the dangers of unguarded swimming areas.
• August saw the highest number of fatalities, with 80 drowning deaths, driven by high temperatures and underestimated water risks.
• Men accounted for 68% of the victims, and older adults over 55 years were disproportionately affected, comprising 60% of the total deaths.
• The DLRG emphasizes the importance of swimming in supervised areas and plans new campaigns to raise awareness, particularly among parents of young children.

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