World Drowning Prevention Day 2024
World Drowning Prevention Day is held annually on 25 July and serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers of drowning and the importance of water safety. This year, we’re reminding residential pool owners and parents of some proactive measures to prevent these tragic incidents.
The stark reality
Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury-related death worldwide, especially among children. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) drowning claims around 236,000 lives each year, with children under five at the highest risk. Importantly, we know that many of these deaths are preventable through a program of increased awareness, education, and the use of proper safety measures.
Tips for pool owners
Install compliant barriers: Your number one – and absolutely non-negotiable – responsibility as a pool owner is to comply with local regulations regarding pool barriers and fencing. Check with your local government authority to make sure you have met all of the necessary requirements. Your pool won’t be certified without it.
Use pool covers and alarms: Secondary measures like sturdy pool covers and pool alarms are a useful additional safeguard in the event that someone falls into the pool unexpectedly.
Regular maintenance: Keep your pool clean and ensure all safety equipment, like life rings and reaching poles, are in good condition and easily accessible.
Emergency preparedness: Make sure you know how to respond in an emergency, as a quick response can save lives. Keep a first aid kit and a phone nearby and be sure that you’re up to date on CPR and that the requisite signage is accessible and visible.
Tips for parents
Supervise constantly: It may seem like an obvious statement, but NEVER leave children unattended around water. Active supervision is crucial, even if your kids can swim. Remove the distractions, stay off your phone and remain focused on the pool and everyone in it.
Teach water safety: Enrol the kids in swimming lessons when they are young. Teaching them basic water skills and safety is a must – but so is recognising that swimming lessons don’t replace the need for supervision at all times, as even the strongest of swimmers can get into trouble.
Set some pool rules: Establish and enforce rules for water safety for everyone – family, friends, adults and kids. Rules like no running near the pool, no diving in shallow water and always swimming with a buddy will help keep everyone safe and sound.
Learn CPR: Adults and older kids should be trained in CPR. In the event of a drowning incident, knowing how to perform CPR can make a critical difference while waiting for emergency services.
Broader community involvement
World Drowning Prevention Day is also about community action. Local organisations, schools and aquatic centres can all help promote water safety education by hosting community events, sharing information on social media and advocating for public policies that enhance water safety.
World Drowning Prevention Day 2024 is a vital opportunity to raise awareness and take action to prevent drowning incidents. By implementing safety measures and educating ourselves and our communities, we can protect our loved ones and ensure that our swimming pools are places of fun and relaxation, not tragedy. By working together, we make every day a step towards a safer, happier swimming experience.