Since the beginning of 2025, 79 people, including six children, have died on Ukraine’s water bodies
79 people, including six children, have died since the beginning of 2025 on Ukraine’s water bodies. This disheartening statistic was announced by the spokesperson of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, Oleksandr Khorunzhyi, during a briefing at the Media Center Ukraine.
“This is the statistic as of February 20. Unfortunately, every day we have tragic incidents on the water, where people neglect safety rules and perish,” he emphasized.
Statistics of the Deceased and Causes
Among the deceased, the majority are men – 65 individuals, while there are 14 women. According to the spokesperson, this may be linked to the popularity of winter fishing: “Despite the ice being dangerous, men venture onto it, risking their lives. By the way, most accidents occur on rivers – 46, and on ponds – 33.”
During the winter period, SES specialists conducted over 3,000 informational and educational activities regarding water behavior rules in winter. Despite this, since the beginning of the year, among the deceased are six children.
“The most dreadful incident occurred in Kherson region, where four children from one family fell through the ice. One was saved, the other three, unfortunately, perished,” Oleksandr Khorunzhyi recounts.
SES Recommendations
He adds that despite these tragic incidents, since the beginning of the year, rescuers have managed to save 68 people, including 20 children.
The SES urges – under no circumstances should one be on ice if it is less than 7 cm thick. If you see someone who has fallen through the ice, immediately call the Rescue Service at numbers ‘101’ or ‘112’!
More information can be found via the link in the first comment. Read more about ice safety rules in the ‘Safety Alphabet’ on the official SES website.