British Columbia recorded 93 accidental drownings in 2025, a 5% decline from the 98 deaths in 2024, according to updated data from the B.C.. Coroners Service. The figures, covering the period from 2015 to 2025, show that seniors over 70 and young adults aged 19-29 were the most impacted groups, with lakes and ponds being the most common drowning locations.

Seniors over 70 and young adults 19-29: The two most vulnerable groups in 2025

The B.C. Coroners Service data reveals that individuals aged 70 or older accounted for 23% of accidental drownings in 2025, the largest proportion of any age group. Close behind, those aged 19 to 29 comprised 20% of the deaths. These two age groups together represent nearly half of all drowning victims last year,a pattern that demands targeted prevention strategies.

Historically, impairment rates have been lowest among these demographics — 12% for seniors and 13% for those under 19, as per the 2015-2024 data — suggesting other factors, such as physical fitness or water familiarity, may be at play . The coroner's office continues to analyze these trends to shape future safety campaigns, as the source report notes.

Lakes and ponds accounted for 27 drownings: Where the danger is highest

Lakes or ponds were the site of 27 accidental drowning deaths in 2025, making them the most common location. Rivers or creeks and baths each saw 19 deaths. Swimming was the leading activity, linked to 22 fatalities (24% of total), while bathing was associated with 19 deaths and unintentional falls into water caused 16 deaths.

Geographically, Interior Health and Fraser Health authorities recorded the highest numbers:24 and 22 drownings respectviely. When adjusted for population, Kootenay Boundary had the highest death rate at 4.5 per 100,000, followed by Thompson Cariboo Shuswap and Fraser East, both at 3.5. These regional hotspots point to where resources for water safety education might be most urgently needed.

A 5% decline from 2024, but 2023 remains the worst year on record

The 93 drownings in 2025 represent a modest improvement over 2024's 98 deaths, but the overall trend over the past eleven years is sobering. According to the B.C. Coroners Service, 2023 was the worst year on record with 120 accidental drownings, followed by 2022 with 102. The cumulative total for 2015-2025 stands at 884 deaths.

Seasonally, summer months remain the deadliest: June through August accounted for 36 deaths in 2025, with August alone claiming 15 lives. Every month recorded at least two deaths, with December being the lowest at two, indicating that water hazards persist year-round in B.C.

Alcohol or drugs linked to 40% of deaths historically: What 2025 data may reveal

The coroner's report emphasizes that multiple factors often contribute to accidental drownings, including alcohol and/or drug use. While specific impairment data for 2025 is not yet available, historical data from 2015-2024 shows that alcohol or drugs were a factor in 40% of all accidental drowning deaths across the province. This statistic underscores the need for continued public awareness campaigns about the risks of mixing alcohol with water activities.

As the source report notes, impairment rates were lowest among those aged 19 and under (13%) and those aged 70 and older (12%), suggesting that the drownings in these groups are driven by other causes. the absence of 2025 impairment figures leaves a critical gap in understanding this year's fatalities, and the coroners service has stated it continues to analyze these trends to inform prevention strategies.