Oman drowning cases surge 300% in 2024, exposing summer safety crisis
Natural water sites emerge as top hazards as officials urge caution amid rising deaths
Dubai: Oman has recorded a staggering 300% rise in drowning incidents in 2024, underscoring a growing public safety crisis during the country’s sweltering summer months, the Times of Oman reported.
As temperatures soar and water-based recreation peaks, authorities are warning that vigilance and preparedness are essential to prevent further tragedies.
According to newly released figures from the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA), drowning accidents have surged to 639 cases in 2024, up sharply from 166 cases in 2023 — an increase of 473 incidents in just one year.
The Sultanate saw 324 cases in 2022, 521 in 2021, and 361 in 2020, reflecting a persistent and deadly trend.
The summer season, when both residents and tourists flock to natural attractions such as wadis, beaches, and dams, is proving especially hazardous.
Wadis top the list
In 2024, wadis topped the list of drowning sites, followed by seas, waterways, agricultural ponds, reservoirs, wells, and rain-formed valley streams.
Authorities say many victims — including adults and children — lacked swimming skills and often ventured into unsafe or restricted areas. Several deaths also resulted from failed rescue attempts, where would-be helpers drowned alongside victims.
The CDAA identified key causes behind the spike: inadequate swimming ability, poor supervision (especially of children), and disregard for safety warnings.
In response, officials are urging the public to follow strict safety measures, including:
Swim only in designated, supervised areas
Equip pools with ladders, handrails, and lifebuoys
Use life vests, especially for children
Avoid pools during unsupervised children's swim time
Maintain constant adult supervision
In emergencies, the CDAA advises calling 9999 or the operations centre at 24343666.
Experts echoed the warning, noting a widespread lack of swimming education.
“What we’ve witnessed is that many adults do not know how to swim,” said Daniil Tulupov, associate head coach of Nautilus Swimming Club and an Olympic coach, told the Times of Oman. “Even when supervising children, their inability to swim means they often can’t help during emergencies.”
With summer still underway, authorities emphasize that awareness, education, and supervision remain the most effective tools to prevent further loss of life.
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