Last summer was marked by an unusually high number of fatal accidents and serious incidents at Finnish beaches, as reported by the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes). Out of 66 reported incidents, 13 resulted in one or more fatalities, while others involved successful rescues. Mervi Murtonen, a leading expert at Tukes, emphasized that each of these accidents could have been prevented individually, and collectively they serve as a wake-up call for improving beach safety measures.

The report highlighted that while most victims were adults, the majority of those rescued were children. This statistic underscores the urgent need for quick responses to emergencies, particularly those involving children in water-related situations. The safety agency's findings underscore the importance of awareness and preparedness among parents and caregivers to prevent tragic outcomes. Murtonen's warning aims to prompt parents to reflect on their roles in ensuring safety for themselves and their children at beaches.

In light of these incidents, Tukes provided five recommendations for enhancing swimming beach safety, suggesting that mere swimming skills are insufficient. Recognizing aquatic dangers, realistically assessing personal abilities, and adhering to safety standards are crucial components of water competency. This comprehensive approach to safety is intended to cultivate a more vigilant and proactive attitude toward water-related activities, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents and saving lives.