A total of 1,229 people drowned in Russia in July, or 15 people fewer than in June, RIA-Novosti reported Monday, citing the Emergency Situations Ministry.
The number of drownings last week reached 271, including 55 over the weekend, the ministry said, adding that most of the victims were drunk and swimming in prohibited areas.
In 2009, 2,733 people nationwide drowned while swimming in lakes, rivers and ponds, with alcohol accounting for 1,903 deaths, the report said.