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National Fire Agency: 'July has the most summer water accidents' — 119 Citizen Water Rescue Teams on duty until 31 August

Source material is a Korean government announcement (in Korean).

The National Fire Agency said water accidents over the past 3 years were most common in July (2,587 a month on average) and that 119 Citizen Water Rescue Teams are on duty at 275 locations nationwide until 31 August.

Key facts

Date of the advice 7 July 2026
Water accidents by month (3-year average) 2,587 in July, 1,753 in August, 883 in September
119 Citizen Water Rescue Teams On duty from 12 June to 31 August
Locations 275 nationwide (79 beaches, 79 rivers, 53 valleys and others)
Safety rules Check weather and safety information, do not swim after drinking or at night, wear a life jacket

Last checked:

On 7 July the National Fire Agency urged people to take care around water this summer. Over the past 3 years, the monthly average number of water rescue call-outs was highest in July at 2,587, followed by 1,753 in August and 883 in September. The 119 Citizen Water Rescue Teams have been on duty since 12 June and will continue until 31 August at 275 locations nationwide, including 79 beaches, 79 rivers and 53 valleys. The agency asked people to check the weather and safety information before going into the water, to avoid swimming after drinking and at night, and to keep children within sight of an adult.

Summaries below are factual notes based on government announcements and primary sources — not evaluations or opinions.

FAQ

When do most water accidents happen?

Over the past 3 years the monthly average number of rescue call-outs was highest in July at 2,587, followed by 1,753 in August and 883 in September.

What should I do when swimming or playing in the water?

Check the weather and on-site safety information beforehand, use places with lifeguards on duty, avoid going into the water after drinking or at night, and keep children within sight of an adult.

Primary source

소방청 — 여름철 수난사고 주의 당부 (정책브리핑) www.korea.kr ↗