World Drowning Prevention Day
According to statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), each year almost 1/4 million people lose their lives in a drowning accident, with a large portion of these being children ages 1 to 14.
Drowning is caused by a very quick, surprising incident that often happens in just a few seconds.
Whether in a swimming pool, bathtub, lake or other situation, it is always important to pay attention and follow the safest protocol!
How to Celebrate World Drowning Prevention Day
The number of ideas for participating in World Drowning Prevention Day are plentiful and here are just a few to get started with:
Get Educated
One excellent way to get involved with this day is to gain knowledge for yourself and those you care about.
When you and your family better understand the risks involved around water, especially for children, it can help you to become better informed about ways to protect yourselves and prevent such life-threatening accidents.
Teach Swimming Skills
Children who learn how to swim from an early age are less likely to find themselves in a situation where they are at risk.
And remember: it’s never too late to learn how to swim! So even adults who aren’t able to swim can overcome their fears and learn how in honor of World Drowning Prevention Day.
Raise Awareness
The World Health Organization invites individuals, families, communities, schools and other groups to participate in this day by raising awareness about the devastating impacts of drowning as well as ways to prevent it.
This might include sharing a story of a situation in which drowning was possible or getting on social media and sharing tips about how to keep people safe from such occurrences.
You can use your own influence to help save others!
Follow Safety Tips
While water can be an important part of summer fun, it is vital to be sure that it is handled safely in all situations.
Take heed of some of these tips offered by the WHO to make wet experiences fun and also safe:
- Supervise Children. Drowning can happen in a matter of seconds, so be sure to keep watch over children at all times
- Avoid Alcohol or Other Substances. It is critical that everyone be as sharp as possible when near the water, so avoid mind-altering substances like alcohol
- Use Safety Equipment. Before heading out on a boat or swimming in a body of water, be sure to check the safety of the equipment and use life jackets, buoys and other important gear
History of World Drowning Prevention Day
The inaugural observance of World Drowning Prevention Day took place in 2021 when it was founded through the combined efforts of the World Health Organization and the United Nations.
It was officially designated by the UN General Assembly in April of its founding year, through Resolution A/RES/75/273.
Since then, this event has been celebrated each year and the hope is that it will continue to grow in size and scope, throughout local communities and all over the world.
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