Every year, World Drowning Prevention Day is observed on July 25 to raise awareness about one of the most overlooked but devastating public health issues: drowning. Initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, this global advocacy day emphasizes the urgent need for coordinated efforts to prevent drowning—a silent epidemic that claims over 236,000 lives annually.
Why World Drowning Prevention Day Matters
Drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths worldwide. Most of these deaths are preventable, yet the issue remains under-reported and under-resourced, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Here are the key facts and themes that World Drowning Prevention Day 2025 aims to highlight:
1. A Leading but Preventable Cause of Death
- Every year, an estimated 236,000 people drown globally.
- Children under the age of 5 are at the highest risk, particularly in countries where access to safe water and swimming lessons is limited.
- More than 90% of drowning deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, often in rural areas where water is part of daily life.
2. A Global Call to Action
World Drowning Prevention Day is not just about awareness—it’s a call to action for governments, NGOs, community leaders, and individuals. The UN resolution urges all nations to:
- Develop national drowning prevention plans
- Implement water safety education programs
- Improve data collection and surveillance
- Promote community-based rescue and first aid training
3. Cost-Effective, Life-Saving Interventions
Many drowning prevention strategies are simple and affordable:
- Teaching children to swim
- Installing barriers or fencing around wells, rivers, and pools
- Providing life jackets and supervised safe swimming zones
- Educating caregivers and communities in rescue and resuscitation skills
4. Climate Change and Disaster Risk
Drowning risks are rising due to climate-related disasters like floods, cyclones, and heavy rainfall. Coastal and island communities are especially vulnerable. Preventing drowning must be part of disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation efforts.
5. Equity and Inclusion
Many who die from drowning are among the most marginalized:
- Children, especially girls
- People with disabilities
- Those living in poverty or conflict zones
- Communities with limited access to healthcare or education
World Drowning Prevention Day is a reminder that no one should be left behind in water safety efforts.
6. What You Can Do Today
Whether you’re an individual, educator, parent, or policymaker, you can take action:
- Learn and share basic water safety skills
- Support or volunteer for local drowning prevention programs
- Advocate for national policies on water safety
- Organize community events or social media campaigns using #DrowningPrevention and #WorldDrowningPreventionDay
Join the Global Movement
On July 25, let’s unite to shine a light on drowning prevention. Together, we can save lives, protect communities, and ensure safer access to water for everyone.
We support organisations like Kids Alive do the Five that aim to reduce drownings through their detailed messaging.
Drowning is preventable. Awareness is the first step. Action is the next.