Increase in Drowning Accidents Among Young People in France: Urgent Call to Promote Swimming Lessons

Paris – 21.06.2026: In recent days, several tragic drowning accidents among young people have been reported in France. At least four teenagers lost their lives in the departments of Doubs, Dordogne, and Nord. These incidents have sparked a renewed debate about the urgency of improving swimming education and effective prevention measures.

The French Lifeguard Association (FFMNS) urgently calls on authorities to implement a national emergency program for swimming instruction. According to FFMNS data, the ability to swim is essential to reduce the risk of drowning accidents. Young people who often swim in uncontrolled and unsupervised waters are particularly vulnerable.

Statistical data from 2025 show a worrying trend: between June 1 and September 30, a total of 1,418 drowning accidents were recorded in France, of which 409 were fatal. This represents an increase of 14% in total cases and 16% in deaths compared to the previous year. The groups most affected are children and young people. Deaths among minors under 18 increased from 15 in 2024 to 27 in 2025.

In this context, the FFMNS requests the implementation of mandatory swimming classes for all sixth-grade students. The goal is to broadly strengthen swimming competence among young people, thereby sustainably reducing the number of drowning accidents. The implementation could be carried out in cooperation between schools, municipalities, and swimming schools.

In addition to teaching swimming skills, the FFMNS also emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the risks of swimming in unsupervised waters. It is recommended to further sensitize parents and guardians to inform their children about safe behavior in the water and encourage them to swim only in supervised areas.

The recent accidents have rekindled the discussion about prevention measures. Experts agree that a combination of early swimming training, targeted awareness campaigns, and better water surveillance is essential to reduce the number of drowning accidents among young people in France.

In addition to school measures, municipal initiatives to create supervised bathing areas and increase the presence of lifeguards could have a lasting impact. Experiences from other countries and scientific studies show that swimming instruction in youth can save lives.

In view of climate changes and the increasing use of rivers, lakes, and outdoor pools, the topic gains even greater relevance. French authorities now have the responsibility to respond quickly and firmly to the demands of the FFMNS to prevent further tragic incidents and ensure the safety of children and young people in the water.