The Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency Tukes has received numerous reports of dangerous incidents and accidents at winter swimming spots, it said in a press statement on Tuesday.
The most typical accident report involves swimmers slipping on surfaces near the water, but there have also been drownings and other serious incidents.
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Tukes says swimmers should remember to take care on slippery surfaces and steps. Even saunas and changing rooms can be risky, according to the safety agency.
Keeping water free of ice is also an important factor in the design of winter swimming spots. Tukes says that care should be taken to ensure that pumps used to keep water moving do not pose a danger to swimmers.
"There are health benefits to winter swimming, but it is good to be aware of the risks as well," said Tukes Senior Officer Konsta Kulmala in the statement.
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