By June 2026, there had already been more drowning deaths in Switzerland than in the whole of 2025. That was reported by RTS this week. And July is following the same pattern: a 46-year-old man died on 19 July on Rolle beach on Lake Geneva, just three metres from the shore. Two people died within a few days on Lake Neuchâtel. The heatwave is driving everyone into the water, and that automatically leads to more accidents. But the heat isn’t the only cause.
What few people realise is that drowning is not like what you see in films. There are no screams, no flailing arms. The person remains upright in the water, with their head tilted slightly back, trying to breathe. They cannot call out for help because all their energy is focused on staying afloat. In adults, the process can last between 20 and 60 seconds. In young children, 20 seconds is enough. The Swiss Life-Saving Society (Société Suisse de Sauvetage) reiterates this every summer: being a good swimmer is no guarantee of safety. A cramp, thermal shock from entering cold water when your body temperature is 37 degrees, or an unexpected current – and even the fittest person in the group could find themselves in trouble.
This year, the groups most affected are young men aged between 17 and 32, and people over 65. Swiss lakes have currents that are not visible from the shore, and Lake Geneva in particular can appear calm whilst conditions beneath the surface are quite different. The Vaud police recommend entering the water slowly, not swimming alone, not going in after a heavy meal, and never underestimating your own strength. If you see someone in difficulty in the water, do not jump straight in to help them: a person in a panic could drag you under with them. Call 144 and throw them something that floats.
The number for water emergencies in Switzerland is 144. If you’re spending time at the lakes this summer – I mean, it is rather hot – do take the basic precautions. And if you have young children in the water, don’t let them out of your sight for a single moment.