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. 2019 Sep 30;49(3):192–203. doi: 10.28920/dhm49.3.192-203

Table 7. Triggers associated with 175 fatal snorkelling incidents. Some incidents involved multiple triggers .

98 (56%) Environment-related 14 (8%) Exertion-related
mean (SD) age 56 (16), 92% male mean (SD) age 60 (13), 93% male
conditions non-conditions-related
immersion effects carrying equipment and catches
marine animal and boat contact surface swims
27 (17%) Unknown 6 (3%) Anxiety-related
mean (SD) age 46 (17), 85% male mean (SD) age 55 (16), 83% male
22 (13%) Extended apnoea 4 (2%) Primary error
mean (SD) age 28 (6), 95% male mean (SD) age 53 (15), 100% male
spearfishing entanglement
practicing in pool or ocean
18 (10%) Water aspiration 3 (2%) Equipment-related
mean (SD) age 56 (16), 67% male mean (SD) age 33 (18), 100% male
primary aspiration entanglement in speargun cords
tight wetsuit
inappropriate snorkel