Published on: 2026-07-23
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
23 July 2026 Sustainable Development Goals
According to the World Health Organization, nearly 300,000 people drown worldwide each year. Drowning is among the top ten threats to the lives of children aged five to 14. On the eve of World Drowning Prevention Day, observed on July 25, WHO has presented seven strategies aimed at helping governments and local communities prevent water-related tragedies.
“Every drowning is a tragedy, and most such deaths can be prevented,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Preventing drownings is not the task of a single ministry but a collective effort. The reward for these efforts will be saved lives.”
Heat increases the risk
Climate change is making the problem even more acute. Floods, storms, and periods of extreme heat are happening more often, increasing the risk of drowning.
A study conducted in the United Kingdom showed that with an increase in temperature by one degree, the number of drowning deaths rises by 7.2 percent, and on days when the temperature exceeds 25 degrees, the risk is almost five times higher than at temperatures below 10 degrees.
Thus, drowning prevention becomes part of preparation not only for the summer season but also for the consequences of climate change.
Seven measures to save lives
The set of measures called PROTECT covers seven areas:
creating safe infrastructure by the water;
training in rescue and resuscitation;
improving occupational safety near water bodies;
introduction of standards for water transport;
swimming training and water safety rules;
proper supervision of children;
preparation of local communities for floods and other emergency situations.
Three tragedies a day
A new program was introduced in Ghana, where about 1,100 people drown annually – on average, three people per day. Children and youth are especially often the victims.
The launch of the program in Ghana reflects the country’s growing attention to water safety. WHO has called on other countries to implement proven measures that will help protect the most vulnerable communities.
The theme of World Drowning Prevention Day this year – “Together for Water Safety” – reminds us that preventing such tragedies is possible only through the combined efforts of authorities, experts, and local residents.
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