With the arrival of warmer days and the increase in demand for rivers, dams, waterfalls and swimming pools for leisure time, the risk of drowning also raises an alert in the west of São Paulo. A survey by the Fire Department shows that, of the 22 drowning incidents recorded in the region of Presidente Prudente (SP) since the beginning of 2026, 11 ended in deaths. In other words, half of the cases had a fatal outcome.
Another fact draws the attention of firefighters: in all the incidents in which the victims survived, they wore life jackets. The information reinforces the importance of safety equipment, especially in activities carried out on rivers, dams and boats.
One of the most recent cases occurred in Lucélia (SP), where the body of Ricardo Guerra, aged 32, was found on Wednesday (4), after he disappeared in the waters of the Aguapeí River, in the Cachoeira Salto Botelho region.
According to information from the Fire Department and reports from family members, Ricardo entered the river to try to save his 11-year-old stepdaughter, who had fallen into the water and was drowning.
The girl was removed by a fisherman who was nearby, but the man ended up being carried away by the current and disappeared.
The family was walking around the place on Sunday (1st). According to the report from Ricardo's companion, Wany Santos, he had promised to take the girl to see the waterfall. The two were playing on the riverbank when the teenager suddenly sank. Upon realizing the situation, Ricardo entered the water to help her, but he also ended up submerging.
The girl was taken to Lucélia's emergency room, where she received medical attention.
Another recent accident involving water activities was recorded in Presidente Epitácio (SP), on October 11th. Two boats capsized on the Paraná River during rain accompanied by gusts of wind.
At least six people were rescued alive by the Fire Department and Civil Defense. One of them had to be taken to the emergency room with hypothermia, but was conscious and oriented.
According to information from rescue teams, the occupants reported that the boats capsized as a result of strong winds. The vessels were driven by qualified pilots and had the required equipment and safety conditions.
Given the risk of accidents in aquatic environments, the Fire Department holds diving training in Presidente Prudente. The preparation seeks to train the military to act in drowning incidents, locate submerged victims and carry out rescue operations in rivers and other aquatic environments.
According to Lieutenant Eduardo Castanho, from the Presidente Prudente Fire Department, the population needs to take extra care with the rise in temperatures and the increase in leisure activities in the water.
"We ask for awareness among the population. From now on, the temperature will rise too much and people will have their leisure time, they like to bathe. But do it responsibly, whether for those who use swimming pools, spas, dams or rivers. Do not abuse it, because the water is dangerous", he advises.
The military also warns of the risks of driving vessels under the influence of alcoholic beverages or other psychoactive substances.
Among the main recommendations is the use of a life jacket. According to Castanho, the equipment was present in all cases in the Presidente Prudente region in which the victims managed to survive.
Firefighters also advise the population to avoid entering the water during adverse weather conditions, especially in stormy situations, intense rain and strong winds.
In rivers and waterfalls, places where there may be intense currents and sudden changes in depth, the recommendation is to avoid bathing. If the person decides to enter the water, they must wear a life jacket and respect the safety conditions of the place.
For those who go to swimming pools with children, vigilance needs to be permanent. Guardians should not leave children alone in the water, even in seemingly shallow or familiar places.
Another important guideline concerns rescue attempts. When witnessing someone drowning, the person should not enter the water to try to rescue them if they do not have specific training, as they could also become a victim.
The recommendation is to immediately call the Fire Department by calling 193. If there are safe conditions, it is possible to launch a buoy or rope to help the person stay on the surface until the specialized teams arrive.
