Few drownings by comparison

Published: Thursday, 31 January 2019

THERE have been a number of reports, especially recently, of people accidentally falling or driving into canals and consequential drownings.

There has also been a suggestion there should be a barrier to deter such incidents. Let's look at just a few scenarios and put things into perspective, writes Bill Ridgeway.

18 drownings a year

Amsterdam is known for its urban canal system (60 miles). To my knowledge there are long lengths without barriers alongside canals. It is said that typically one car per week falls into the canals there and there are, typically 18 drownings a year.

It is suggested that 'peeing into the canals is dangerous' when under the influence of drink or drugs (http://www.dutchamsterdam.nl/2152-amsterdam-canals-drownings).

Manchester

Now let's look at Manchester. There were "28 water related deaths since 2007" (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-46636512). That's a rough average of three a year so, by comparison, it is not as bad.

Other places which may not have any defence against people or vehicles going into the sea are harbours—of which there are many.