Lifejackets could prevent up to 80 per cent of drownings on the water – Lifejacket Day on 23 May 2026

In Finland, 100–150 people drown every year, around one third of them as a result of accidents in waterborne transport. Studies show that up to eight out of ten people who drowned in accidents involving watercraft would have survived if they had been wearing properly fitted lifejackets. Lifejacket Day, which highlights the importance of lifejackets, will be held on Saturday 23 May 2026. The Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation, the Finnish Lifeboat Institution, the Finnish Border Guard and the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom urge everyone on the water to wear lifejackets suitable for their intended use in all watercraft, every time they go out on the water.

Although legislation requires lifejackets to be carried for every passenger on motorboats and on sailing boats over five metres long, this does not reflect the real risks associated with boating. A large share of drownings involving people using watercraft occur while using rowing boats, where lifejackets are not required.  

“Typically, accidents on the water involve someone travelling alone in a small open boat that capsizes unexpectedly, causing the boater to fall into the water. Often someone hears their calls for help, but unfortunately help too often arrives too late for those who have chosen not to wear a lifejacket,” says Kristiina Heinonen, Executive Director of the Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation. 

“Increasing the use of lifejackets would be the single most effective measure for reducing drownings in Finland. In addition to raising awareness, we should also consider tightening legislation on personal flotation devices,” Heinonen continues.