France has recorded over 1,000 drowning incidents this summer, with 268 resulting in fatalities, marking an increase of nearly 14% compared to last year. The rise in drownings has been attributed in part to the ongoing heatwave. Between June 1 and August 13, 37 children and adolescents lost their lives in drowning accidents, up from 28 during the same period in 2024, according to Santé publique France. In response to the growing number of drownings, particularly among children and teenagers, the Fédération française des maîtres-nageurs has called for a nationwide free swimming education plan. Additionally, a Marseille-based association has initiated swimming lessons targeted at mothers to help reduce drowning risks.