[Unintentional drowning in fresh water]

Abstract

Objective: Unintentional drowning is an important public health problem. Effective prevention measures require detailed knowledge of the specific epidemiology of fresh water drowning and near-drowning incidents.

Methods: We analyzed statistics about these incidents in Isère (district in southeastern France) from 1996 through 2003. Data came from district emergency medical services (SAMU) and from hospitals.

Results: There were 101 drowning incidents (1.3 per 100,000 person-years), 77% involving males and 23% females. Mortality was high (38%) and involved mainly males (90%). Natural water bodies were the site of many cases (39%) and the associated mortality rate was high (69%). These cases raise specific problems of prevention and assistance to victims. Drowning incidents occurred most commonly (49%) in swimming pools and involved mainly children (82%), but mortality was lower (20%) in these cases. The remaining cases (12%) took place in bathtubs and involved mainly children (75%). The mortality rate for these was relatively low (14%).

Conclusion: Only prevention measures that fully take into account the different characteristics of each drowning site can reduce the incidence of these events.