Child deaths linked to drowning in London have surged by 80% since 2023, according to analysis from the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK). A new report from the charity reveals that children living in urban areas account for the majority of drowning deaths, raising fresh concerns about water safety and prompting calls for better education for children, teenagers and families.
Heatwave Heightens Risks
The warning comes as the capital swelters through its second heatwave of the year, with temperatures forecast to climb as high as 38C on Tuesday and Wednesday, potentially making it one of the hottest June periods on record. Thousands are flocking to London’s lidos, open-air pools, the Thames and nearby beaches to escape the heat, but water safety experts urge people not to underestimate the dangers. While a dip in the water can be tempting during soaring temperatures, campaigners warn that open water can present hidden risks, even on the hottest days.
Expert Warnings and Recent Tragedies
Sian Foster, Director of Corporate Affairs at the Port of London Authority, said: “The tidal Thames is a fast-moving and unpredictable environment, where even strong swimmers can quickly get into difficulty. By understanding the risks, following safety guidance, and respecting the water, we can all help prevent further tragedies.” During the heatwave in May, a total of 19 people across the country lost their lives, including 13 children. Junior Slater, 12, from Clayton-le-Woods in Lancashire died on May 26 after getting into difficulty while swimming in the River Ribble at Ribchester. Baltazar L'Quy, a 14-year-old boy, tragically drowned in the River Thames near Donnington Bridge in Oxford on May 27 during the heatwave.
Drowning Prevention Week
The hot weather coincides with RLSS UK’s Drowning Prevention Week, which, in partnership with the Port of London Authority, is offering resources to help children, teenagers and families recognise the dangers of open water and stay safe. Ms Foster added: “Recent weeks have tragically shown how dangerous inland waterways can be. Drowning Prevention Week plays a vital role in raising awareness of these risks, and our partnership with RLSS UK is crucial in helping to ensure consistent, lifesaving messages reach communities across the UK.”
Preventable Deaths and Statistics
According to the RLSS UK report, 87% of child drowning deaths reviewed by a Child Death Overview Panel were found to be preventable. The most common contributing factors include children being left unsupervised, entering unsafe environments and a lack of safety measures. Between 2020 and 2025, the rate of child drowning deaths in the capital rose from 1.76 to 3.16 per one million children. The number of deaths in London rose from 10 in the period 2020 to 2022 to 18 in 2023 to 2025, an increase of 80%.
Call for Education
Ashley Jones, Head of Water Safety and Education at RLSS UK, said: “We urge parents, carers, teachers, and community providers to use RLSS UK’s free, accessible water safety resources to educate children and teens with critical information this June and ensure everyone has a safe summer. Whilst a foundation in water safety will be included in England’s school curriculum from September, this vital information needs to be taught now across the UK to prevent tragedies over the summer. We can all contribute to creating communities free from drowning.” The resources can be found online at rlss.org.uk.
