More than 170 drownings reported in Oman last year

Muscat: Oman witnessed one drowning incident in a little more than every two days, according to new statistics from the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance.
Oman witnessed one drowning incident every three days, according to new statistics from the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance.
Figures released by the authority showed there were 173 cases of drowning in 2017, a decrease of 95 cases compared to the previous year when 268 incidents were recorded.
In a new summer swimming advisory, the authority said, “We confirm that lack of monitoring children while swimming, and failure to follow safety regulations are the most significant causes of drowning in Oman.
“Drowning is frequent in the summer. Many families go to water sites, valleys and beaches. Some do not follow public safety rules and face the danger of drowning.”
The authority called on residents to be careful when going out for cruises, to valleys or other bodies of water. They also released these tips to keep in mind when going out swimming:
Tips for swimmers:
Watch children while swimming or getting close to water.
Practice swimming in designated places.
Adhere to safety regulations.
Check the flow of the water stream when crossing the valleys.
Check the depth of the water before entering it.
Make sure you can swim before entering a body of water.
For swimming pools, the following must be observed:
The swimming pool should be equipped with fixed steps and metal handles.
Do not fill the pool fully if used by children.
Adults should be on hand to observe swimming children.
Make sure that children are not in the pool when you leave.
Call emergency numbers (9999) or (24343666) to request assistance.