This year, the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) officers have already pulled 40 drowned people from the water. Just this swimming season, which has been active since mid-May, 15 casualties were pulled from the water.
These are statistics from the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD); the real numbers are probably even higher, as not always services are called. This year, the services are also emphasizing safety on the water. Drowning happens quickly and a person needs help within 20 to 60 seconds, so the attention of bystanders is crucial.
Mārtiņš Baltmanis, Chief of the VUGD, said: "In reality, when a person is drowning, they behave quietly and [..] they don't wave their arms or flail around. You should approach from behind if you happen to be involved in a rescue. And the safest hold is by the armpit and neck. And pull the person out while swimming backward."
The services also stress that when gathering for the festivities, people should know the coordinates of their location so that they can be accurately named if necessary. Residents are urged to download the "112 Latvija" app, as it can help the services more effectively.
Celebrators should also be careful when handling barbecues and bonfires and eat shashlik carefully.
Liene Cipule, Director of the Emergency Medical Service (NMPD), noted: "Already this year there have been several cases of children falling into bonfires, falling on barbecues. Midsummer is the time when we experience several such calls [for choking on shashlik], and last Midsummer two people died."
The NMPD director pointed out that the number of minor injuries also doubled during the festivities.
From Friday until Tuesday, police will enhance its presence on roads to prevent drunk driving. Traffic jams may occur as extensive checks will be carried out.
