Sixty-nine children have drowned in Kazakhstan since the start of the swimming season, prompting the Interior Ministry to issue a warning to parents, according to infohub.kz.
According to the ministry's official website, accidents most often occur due to swimming in unauthorized areas. Children swim on makeshift beaches where the bottom has not been inspected, and there are whirlpools and strong currents. Additionally, child fatalities happen because adults consume alcohol during outings, leaving children without proper supervision.
Law enforcement officials reminded that swimming in prohibited areas carries administrative liability under Article 364 of the Code of Administrative Offenses. Since the beginning of the year, over 2,700 offenders have been held accountable.
The ministry recommends following water safety rules:
– Avoid swimming in unauthorized areas.
– Supervise children during outings and do not leave them unattended.
– Explain to children the dangers of swimming in unfamiliar places (strong currents, rocks, debris, whirlpools).
– Remember that swimming in cold water during hot weather is dangerous due to sudden temperature changes, which can cause vascular spasms and cramps.