All those who died were men and most were 60 years or older. Six of the deceased were not wearing life jackets and four of the accidents occurred at a quay or jetty.
– One piece of advice is to check the weather forecast and to keep in mind that the weather can quickly change. It is also good to contact people on land and tell them where you intend to go, and when you think you have arrived, says Jenny Blomberg, maritime safety expert at the Swedish Transport Agency.
Many unaccustomed to the lake
In commercial shipping, on the other hand, almost no one dies. An accident in 2022 is still under investigation and it is unclear whether it occurred in commercial or recreational shipping.
Some of those heading out to sea are beginners: During the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, the demand for boats increased sharply. Now it has calmed down somewhat, but according to Sweboat 2022, between 20,000 and 25,000 boats are sold annually in Sweden. According to the Boating Survey, there are approximately 860,000 recreational boats in seaworthy condition in the country.
In the video above you get some more thought-provoking tips for the boating season – as well as see some nice boats.