17 drowning deaths in Poland over weekend

Seventeen drowning deaths were reported in Poland this past weekend as people took to lakes, rivers and the Baltic Sea amid warm weather, the Government Security Centre (RCB) said on Monday.

A total of 196 people have drowned in Poland since the beginning of April. Officials have advised citizens to steer clear of bathing areas not patrolled by lifeguards.

Photo: PAP/Marcin Gadomski

A total of 196 people have drowned nationwide since the beginning of April, public broadcaster Polish Radio’s IAR news agency reported.

According to officials, alcohol is among the main causes of swimmers drowning in Poland.

The RCB’s Anna Adamkiewicz warned on Monday that alcohol was a major risk factor, “one often causing people to overestimate their swimming abilities.”

She added that people should swim in areas patrolled by lifeguards “and always follow the lifeguard's instructions."

Authorities have also advised citizens to wear life jackets when on a boat or canoe.

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Source: IAR