Two elderly swimmers drown in western France
High temperatures continue to draw people into the water
One of the incidents took place in an unsupervised area of the Grande Plage, in Hendaye
Garcia Celine/Shutterstock.
Two elderly people have died by drowning in western France, adding to the growing toll of such tragedies with more than 90 drowning deaths across France since June 19.
As France heads towards its third heatwave this week, the extreme temperatures that have gripped the country in recent weeks have seen people heading to water, often at unsupervised bathing spots.
The two latest deaths, both involving elderly women, occurred just a few hours apart, reports Franceinfo. The first took place on July 4 in Hendaye, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, where an 86-year-old woman drowned while swimming in a reportedly unsupervised area of the Grande Plage.
Although she was quickly pulled from the water by witnesses and treated by lifeguards before firefighters and emergency medical services continued resuscitation efforts, she could not be revived.
The second drowning occurred a few hours later, at around 19:00, in Le Croisic, Loire-Atlantique. An 84-year-old woman was swimming at the Chenal des Vaux when she was pulled unconscious from the water by a witness. Despite attempts to resuscitate her, she died following a cardiac and respiratory arrest.
Heat, fatigue and overconfidence
Experts warn that heatwaves significantly increase the risk of drowning, particularly among older swimmers. High temperatures can lead to dehydration, fatigue, dizziness and reduced physical performance, all of which can make even confident swimmers vulnerable in the water.
Cold-water shock after overheating can also trigger sudden loss of consciousness, while underlying health conditions or medication may further increase risks for older adults.
Swimming instructor Axel Lamotte, head of the Fédération française des maîtres-nageurs sauveteurs, told The Connexion: “Some overestimate their strength. It is once again a question of understanding your own abilities in the water.”
Additionally, many drowning incidents occur in unsupervised or unfamiliar natural waters such as rivers, lakes and beaches without lifeguards.
People are strongly advised to swim only in supervised areas, avoid alcohol before swimming, and never swim alone.
Experts also warn against attempting rescue without training. Mr Lamotte said:
“When someone is drowning, they are not in control of their actions. They may panic and pull the rescuer under.”
He added that many recent tragedies involve well-intentioned bystanders who also become victims.
In emergency situations, the public is urged not to attempt dangerous rescues themselves, but to alert emergency services immediately by calling 112 or 15.
Authorities recommend supervising children continuously, entering water gradually after heat exposure, and being aware of personal limits, particularly during heatwaves when fatigue and dehydration are more likely.
