This weekend, the State Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has already retrieved three bodies from water bodies, reported service representative Anete Strazdina.
On Sunday morning, the bodies of two victims were retrieved from a lake in the Vecpiebalga municipality of the Cēsis region and from a pond in the Lendžā municipality of the Rēzekne region. Another person without signs of life was extracted from a river in Jūrmala on Saturday.
The bodies have been handed over to the State Police to determine the circumstances of the deaths.
Rescuers remind that warm weather encourages many to head to the water; however, drowning remains one of the most common tragedies during holidays. Swimming while intoxicated, in unfamiliar places, or alone is especially dangerous.
The State Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) urges choosing safe swimming locations, not overestimating one's abilities, and always supervising children near water. Parents must realize that being with a child near water is not a leisure activity but double the work, as children need constant supervision—even a moment's distraction can lead to a great tragedy.
While enjoying water activities—boating, on a catamaran, jet skiing, or paddleboarding—life jackets should be worn, and for children under 12, wearing a life jacket is mandatory.
