The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a new technical package to help governments and communities reduce drowning deaths. The announcement comes ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day, which is observed on 25 July each year.
Drowning is a major public health issue worldwide, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths annually. Many of these deaths are preventable, according to the WHO. The new package outlines seven proven strategies that countries can adopt to lower drowning rates. These measures include teaching children basic swimming and water safety skills, installing barriers to control access to water, and providing safe places for children away from water. Other strategies focus on training bystanders in rescue and resuscitation, enforcing boating regulations, improving flood risk management, and coordinating efforts across different sectors.
The WHO emphasizes that these interventions are cost-effective and can be implemented in various settings, from low-income communities with many open water sources to high-income areas with pools and beaches. The technical package is designed to support policymakers, public health officials, and community leaders in taking action.
By promoting these proven measures, the WHO hopes to significantly reduce the number of drowning deaths around the world. The organization urges governments to prioritize drowning prevention as part of their public health agendas.