Sri Lanka Police has warned the public to exercise extreme caution around rivers, reservoirs, waterfalls and other water bodies during the Poson holiday, as drowning deaths continue to rise across the country.

Speaking ahead of the Poson Festival, Police Spokesman ASP F.U. Wootler said police have observed an increase in water-related accidents and have deployed Police Lifesaving Unit personnel across the island to assist the public during the holiday.

“We respectfully urge the public to take responsibility to prevent water-related accidents,” he said.

He noted that around 75 people have died in drowning incidents so far in 2026 and urged the public to follow safety instructions when visiting water recreation sites during the festive period.ASP Wootler also said lifesaving teams are operating in 31 of the island’s 48 police divisions and urged visitors to obey warning signs placed at dangerous locations and seek the assistance of lifeguards whenever possible.“No one should enter the water after consuming alcohol or drugs. Officers in plain clothes are deployed at many water recreation sites, and anyone found violating the law will face legal action,” he warned.Parents were also advised to closely supervise children at swimming pools and other water recreation areas during the holiday period.

Meanwhile, Police said more than 10,000 officers have been deployed islandwide to ensure public safety during the Poson festival, including action against traffic and public nuisance offences.ASP Wootler warned that strict legal action will be taken against motorists using modified motorcycles or three-wheelers to create excessive noise.“We will not allow motorcycles or three-wheelers to use harsh, disturbing or fear-inducing sound effects that cause inconvenience to the public,” he said.

He added that legal action would also be taken against motorcycles fitted with modified silencers designed to produce excessive noise, as well as vehicles using excessively loud sound systems.Police also reminded motorcyclists that both riders and pillion passengers are legally required to wear protective helmets.“Cases will be filed against both the rider and the passenger if helmets are not worn. Motorcycles must not carry more passengers than legally permitted, and reckless riding will not be tolerated,” he said.The Police further urged the public not to leave elderly family members alone at home while travelling during the Poson holidays.

“Do not leave elderly parents living alone while you travel for the Poson holidays. They could become targets or victims of crime. Pay attention to the security of your home, your vehicle and your destination,” ASP Wootler added