Currently there have appeared no studies in the Czech Republic, which cover drowning and accidents connected with water. The objective of the present IGA MZ ČR project is to map the problem of drowning and near drowning in the Czech Republic in the period of 2001 through 2004. Thereby obtained results should be the basis for the creation of a comprehensive information system in the Czech Republic. The application of the results lies in the establishing of specific preventive measures. At present there have been processed monitoring results covering the years 2001 and 2002. In question is a retrospective survey. The series is comprised of individuals in whom the cause of death was drowning, and subjects that have been hospitalized for near drowning. The series includes all age categories. The monitoring has been carried out in view of age, gender, place, cause, activity, and other variables. The characteristics of drowning have been followed up with regard to the age of the drowned and near-drowned subjects.

        Key words: water-related accidents - drowning - consequences of drowning.