July 25th is World Drowning Prevention Day
As the summer months approach and people engage in water-based activities for leisure, it is crucial to raise awareness about the importance of preventing drowning incidents. UnitedHealthcare Global recognises the significance of this matter and seeks to offer support and resources to our clients and their employees in line with World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July.
Over the past decade, drowning has led to over 2.5 million fatalities, with 90% of these incidents occurring in low and middle-income countries.1 Children aged 1-4 years old have the highest mortality rates, followed by those aged 5-9 years old.1 The consequences of this preventable public health issue are not only devastating for individuals and their families but also for the wider society.
To reduce the risks of drowning, organizations, and individuals should consider taking evidence-based, low-cost measures according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines:
- Enroll in swimming and water safety classes: Learning basic swimming and water safety skills can significantly prevent drowning, especially for children aged six years and above.
- Learn rescue and resuscitation techniques: The immediate administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and similar rescue techniques can significantly improve survival chances for individuals who have been removed from the water.
- Ensure supervision by a responsible adult in the presence of children: Whether it is by a pond, river, beach, swimming pool, or bathtub, adult supervision should be focused and without distractions.
- Wear a life jacket at all times on water: Life jackets are critical safety equipment for all swimming abilities and must be worn during water activities.
- Recognise weather conditions and check boating equipment: Be prepared for possible emergencies by monitoring the weather forecast, having access to high-quality safety equipment, and ensuring that the boat has been regularly inspected and serviced.
Let us come together for World Drowning Prevention Day to raise awareness and contribute to making all water-based activities safer for everyone. The WHO offers a variety of resources to help raise awareness on drowning and share helpful advice for drowning prevention. By increasing our knowledge and commitment towards these measures, we can make a difference in reducing the devastating impact of drowning on communities worldwide.