The Balearic Islands closed 2024 with 27 deaths due to unintentional drowning, a reduction compared to the 32 cases in 2023. Although this decrease is positive, the archipelago remains in seventh place among the autonomous communities with more deaths from this cause, according to the National Drowning Report (INA) prepared by the Royal Spanish Federation of Rescue and Lifesaving.
The national panorama
Statewide, drowning deaths totaled 471 cases in 2024, up from 422 in 2023. Andalusia leads the statistics with 72 deaths, followed by Galicia(64) and the Valencian Community and the Canary Islands, both with 63 deaths each. The Balearic Islands, with 27 cases, shares similar figures with Castilla y León, which recorded 28 deaths.
Beaches, the most dangerous places
In Spain as a whole, 51.8% of drowning deaths occurred on beaches, with 244 deaths. They were followed by rivers with 85 cases (18.05%) and swimming pools, with 57 deaths (12.1%). Lack of surveillance continues to be a critical factor, as 213 deaths (45.22%) occurred in unsupervised locations, while only 66 incidents (14.01%) were recorded in areas with lifeguard services.
The profile of drowning in Spain
The report points out that drowning victims are mostly men over 55 years of age(81.5% of cases), of Spanish nationality(85.6%). Summer continues to be the most dangerous season, accumulating 269 deaths, representing 57.11% of the total.
A call to action in the Balearic Islands
Although the Balearic Islands recorded five fewer deaths than the previous year, the data reflect the need to reinforce safety measures on beaches and other aquatic areas. Vigilance and awareness are key to reducing risks, especially during the months of greatest tourist influx and activity at sea.
