The International Life Saving Federation joins the World Health Organisation and many others in commemorating the United Nation’s World Drowning Prevention Day 2024.
Every year on July 25, we raise awareness for drowning as a public health and sustainable development issue that tragically has caused over 2.5 million deaths in the last decade.
The overwhelming majority of these deaths (90%) happen in low-and-middle-income countries. Globally, the highest drowning rates occur among children aged 1–4 years, followed by children aged 5–9 years.
Drowning can be shocking and silent, having widespread impact on families, communities and rescuers.
Investments in awareness, education, research make drowning less likely. Early action in an emergency can and does save lives. Often seconds matter.
On World Drowning Prevention Day, we remind National Governments, policy makers and communities that low-cost drowning prevention solutions exist and can be used to drastically reduce the risk of drowning.
Lifesavers around the world dedicate much of their lives to preventing drowning, whether by protecting beaches and pools through lifeguard and rescue services, teaching swimming, water safety and lifesaving, or collaborating with governments, and other organisations.
On World Drowning Prevention Day, we reflect on the tremendous momentum being generated for drowning prevention, much occurring since the historic UN Resolution on Drowning Prevention in April 2021, and support by the 2023 World Health Assembly Resolution Accelerating action on Global Drowning Prevention.
We now eagerly await the upcoming release of the Global Status Report on Drowning Prevention – the first ever global assessment of drowning burden, risks, and approaches to prevention. The report will provide countries with a tool to inform targeted drowning prevention efforts and act as a mechanism to track progress over time. We thank the many Member Federations who have contributed energy, collaboration and data to this pivotal project.
On World Drowning Prevention Day, we express our gratitude to the millions of lifesavers across the globe who dedicate much of their lives, to bring skill, expertise and a deep commitment to the prevention drowning in their communities.
Graham Ford AO, ILS President