Drowning Deaths Decrease in Brandenburg, Steady in Berlin

Drowning incidents in Brandenburg and Berlin have shown a mixed picture this year. While Brandenburg recorded five deaths in March and a tragic drowning of a 13-year-old boy in Falkensee in August, the overall numbers have decreased compared to last year. Meanwhile, Berlin's drowning figures remain steady.

Brandenburg has seen a decrease in drowning deaths this year, with 20 incidents so far, seven fewer than in 2024. The deadliest month was March, with five fatalities. Tragically, a 13-year-old boy lost his life in a lake in Falkensee in August. Nationwide, drowning deaths have also decreased, with 321 recorded this year, 33 fewer than in 2024.

Across both regions, men make up the majority of drowning victims. In Berlin, 7 out of 12 victims were men, while in Brandenburg, this number rose to 18 out of 20. In Berlin, the number of drowning incidents from January to September 15 remained the same as last year, with 12 deaths. Notably, three people drowned each in June and August, including a 23-year-old man in Tegeler See who attempted to save his brother.

Despite the decrease in drowning deaths in Brandenburg, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of water safety. The disproportionate number of male victims, particularly young men, highlights the need for targeted education and awareness campaigns about the dangers of alcohol consumption, overconfidence, and lack of knowledge of swimming rules near or in water bodies.