Swimming Instructor Warns: Alcohol and Water Don't Mix
Latvia has the highest drowning mortality rate among men in the EU, and alcohol is often involved in these tragedies, says swimming instructor Inga Amerika.
According to the latest Eurostat data for 2022, Latvia records the highest drowning mortality rate among men in the European Union – 8.3 deaths per 100,000 population. These alarming figures highlight a serious public health concern.
Former Latvian swimming champion and now swimming instructor Inga Amerika told "Sporta Studija" that most drowning victims among men are aged between 35 and 50. She emphasizes that alcohol often plays a role in these incidents. "Alcohol and recreation in water are two incompatible things," she stated.
Experts urge the public to exercise caution when near water bodies and to avoid alcohol consumption during swimming. This serves as a reminder that safety on the water must be a top priority.
