Latest news with #NationalDrowningPreventionPolicy
Saudi Gazette
a day ago
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia leads globally in water safety standards as drowning deaths drop 17%
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has achieved global leadership in water safety and drowning prevention standards, following the adoption of its National Drowning Prevention Policy, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture announced. The ministry revealed a 17% decrease in drowning fatalities, attributing the progress to the effectiveness of nationwide safety programs and their social and economic impact. The announcement came during a workshop held to mark World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25. Launched in collaboration with the Public Health Authority (Weqaya) and various government bodies, the ministry has activated the awareness campaign through internal programs and its digital platforms to promote safe behavior around water and strengthen public understanding of preventive measures. According to the workshop, the Kingdom's leading position was achieved through the implementation of 12 integrated national initiatives aimed at drowning efforts have helped Saudi Arabia avoid an estimated economic burden exceeding SR800 million—highlighting the tangible impact of its proactive safety National Drowning Prevention Policy seeks to enhance water safety through a unified national framework that protects lives across the Kingdom's various aquatic policy is rooted in domestic regulations and aligned with international conventions, applying best global practices tailored to Saudi Arabia's unique environmental and geographic emphasized that the sharp reduction in drowning incidents and avoided economic costs are the result of cohesive national action and inter-agency cooperation.
Saudi Gazette
09-07-2025
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia adopts World Drowning Prevention Day as national health priority
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has officially adopted World Drowning Prevention Day, marking July 25 of each year as a national observance dedicated to raising awareness and enhancing water safety, following a Cabinet session chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah on Tuesday. Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel said the decision reflects the Kingdom's firm commitment to safeguarding public health and preventing avoidable injuries and deaths. He added that it aligns with the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society and ensure the well-being of all residents. Al-Jalajel praised the efforts of national health and safety agencies in formulating and implementing the National Drowning Prevention Policy, which has helped reduce drowning-related fatalities by more than 17% per 100,000 people. This, he noted, has saved the Saudi economy approximately SR800 million, according to validated local and international reports. The minister emphasized that Saudi Arabia's adoption of this day is part of its broader 'Health in All Policies' approach. He said it reflects the Kingdom's global leadership in water safety, noting that the World Health Organization ranked Saudi Arabia first in 2024 among 140 countries for meeting the highest standards in water safety and rescue protocols. Al-Jalajel added that the health system will continue to implement preventive awareness campaigns and rapid response programs, while expanding collaboration with relevant sectors to ensure the highest standards of water safety whether in homes, recreational facilities, tourist destinations, or public beaches and swimming pools. He concluded by affirming that the ministry, in partnership with stakeholders, remains committed to promoting community awareness, developing preventive policies, and creating a safer, healthier environment for all.
