Despite significant progress in reducing drowning deaths in the WHO Western Pacific Region, ~84 000 lives are still lost to drowning every year, with many of these deaths occurring in children and young people. Compared to the rest of the world, the Western Pacific bears the heaviest burden of drowning deaths, comprising nearly 30% of the global total. Drowning is currently the leading cause of death for children aged 5-14 in the Region.
Recognizing the necessity of addressing drowning as a preventable public health issue, both the 2021 United Nations General Assembly resolution on drowning prevention and the 2023 World Health Assembly resolution called for urgent, multisectoral efforts to reduce drowning deaths.
Your story can save a life
This year’s World Drowning Prevention Day aims to share powerful stories about changemakers from around the world who are helping to save lives and prevent lifelong disabilities caused by drowning.
Share your experience - whether it’s a creative way that you stay safe around water or a lesson learned from a close call - and help us all prevent drowning and save lives. Post your story on your social media account using #DrowningPrevention and tag @WHO!
Each story about drowning helps us better understand how to prevent it. By drawing inspiration from real-life stories to generate action and change, governments, organizations, and communities can train more people in life-saving skills, roll out effective water safety programmes, and spread awareness on drowning prevention.
What can we do to save more lives?
The first-ever WHO global status report on drowning prevention identifies a number of ways that governments, communities and individuals can help prevent drowning.
What can countries do to prevent drowning?
- Barriers: Installing barriers in public areas to prevent easy access to water hazards.
- Supervision: Ensuring lifeguards are present at public swimming pools and beaches.
- Training: Providing communities with rescue and resuscitation training.
- Respond: Maintaining active and effective search and rescue operations.
- Early weather warnings: Delivering free, accessible weather alerts to help communities stay informed about risks.
What can you do to prevent drowning?
- Learn to swim: Equip yourself and your children with swimming skills. Swimming lessons save lives.
- Supervise children: Always keep a close eye on children near water. Never leave children unattended, even for a moment.
- No alcohol near water: Avoid drinking alcohol when around water. Stay sharp and vigilant.
- Be aware of surroundings: Always check weather and water conditions before swimming or boating. Stay informed and safe.
- Use safety equipment: Ensure lifejackets are available and used correctly when boating. Access to safety gear can make a crucial difference.