The coastal area of Cam Thinh Dong Commune, Khánh Hòa Province, where the tragic drowning occurred. — Photo vtv.vn

The victims are Thai Thi Ha, 50, from Cam Thinh Dong Commune, Cam Ranh City and her two daughters, Dang Thi Thuy, 27; Dang The Lien, 24, and Thuy’s 10-year-old daughter, said Dang Van Thu, chairman of Cam Thinh Dong Commune People’s Committee.

The incident occurred when they were catching snails, vietnamplus.vn reported.

Suddenly, Ha and Tram - her granddaughter, fell into a deep water hole. Thuy and Lien rushed into the water to rescue them but were also submerged.

Ha’s son-in-law, who cannot swim, ran to call for help but was too late.

At 1pm, the bodies of four victims were found and taken ashore.

The local government provided victims’ family with VND24 million (US$1,000) in support.

On the same day, Dak Lak central highlights province also reported a three-year-old child drowned while playing in a local canal.

The victim is Duong Thi Yen, living in Cư Kbang Commune, Ea Sup District.

On August 19, two children were also reported drowned at the same place.

Canals are always a potential risk of drowning in children in the locality, according to Dam Van Ha, chairman of People’s Committee of Cư Kbang Commune.

Local authorities have recommended families should pay more attention to their children and keep them away from the canals, avoiding unfortunate consequences.

VNS