MUSCAT, July 15: Oman has witnessed a significant surge in drowning incidents this year, with the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) reporting a 300% increase in cases in 2024 compared to the previous year. The number of drowning incidents jumped from 166 in 2023 to 639 in 2024, signaling a growing public safety crisis during the summer months.

Authorities have identified several key factors contributing to the alarming rise. A lack of swimming skills among victims, frequent swimming in unsafe and unauthorized water bodies such as agricultural ponds, dams, and wadis, and insufficient supervision—particularly of young children—are among the primary causes.

Children under the age of six are especially vulnerable, accounting for a large proportion of drowning victims. Many incidents have occurred in public swimming pools, followed by the sea and natural water sites.

Officials are urging the public to adhere strictly to safety guidelines to prevent further tragedies. These include swimming only in designated and supervised areas, using appropriate safety equipment such as life jackets, maintaining constant adult supervision near water, and raising community awareness about water safety.

The CDAA also warns against reckless rescue attempts by untrained individuals, which have sometimes led to multiple casualties.

In case of emergencies, the public is advised to immediately contact the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority at 9999 or 24343666.

With the summer season underway, authorities emphasize the urgent need for heightened vigilance and safety measures to protect residents and visitors from drowning incidents.