Latest news with #WorldDrowningPreventionDay
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.
Glasgow Times
09-07-2025
- Climate
- Glasgow Times
Water safety warning as Scotland heats up this weekend
The utility company is advising people to "stay safe, behave responsibly and not take risks" around reservoirs, rivers, lochs, and beaches. The warning comes as figures from the National Water Safety Forum reveal there were 33 accidental drownings in Scotland in 2024 and 193 across the UK. To equip people with basic water safety knowledge and skills, Scottish Water is collaborating with Water Safety Scotland to hold a Water Safety Open Day on July 25, in support of World Drowning Prevention Day. Read more: Kneecap slate John Swinney at Glasgow gig after TRNSMT axe The annual event will be held at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, from 11am to 4pm. Peter Farrer, chief operating officer at Scottish Water, said: "While people should enjoy any good weather we have and take pleasure at Scotland's beautiful lochs, reservoirs, rivers, and beaches, it's absolutely vital they stay safe at all times and act responsibly. "As a number of tragic deaths in Scotland in recent years have shown, safety is a serious issue in all bodies of water. "At reservoirs, while the water may look harmless, there are many hidden dangers. "We need to ensure everyone is aware of these hazards. "We are reminding parents to keep their children safe and asking everyone to behave responsibly around reservoirs and other watercourses.' Reservoirs, which are integral to Scottish Water's infrastructure, pose specific hazards including deep, cold water, dams, steep banks, spillways, and underwater pipework. The remote locations of many reservoirs mean there is often a lack of immediate assistance and poor mobile phone reception. As such, Scottish Water discourages swimming in these bodies of water. The company's safety advice extends to pet owners, as attempting to rescue pets in trouble in the water can result in fatalities. Scottish Water reservoir rangers patrol popular locations including Milngavie, Gladhouse, Kilpatrick Hills, Carron Valley, North Third, and Cocksburn. The company is also reminding people to stay hydrated, encouraging them to take reusable bottles wherever they venture this weekend. Their Top Up Tap map shows the location of over 130 taps across the country, including in towns, cities, parks, and at the coast.
Pembrokeshire Herald
09-06-2025
- Climate
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Charities invited to apply for £50,000 to help young people into work
18 accidental water deaths already recorded in 2024 AS TEMPERATURES rise and more families flock to rivers, lakes and coastlines, Water Safety Wales is warning of an increased risk of drowning across the country. New figures released this week show that 18 people in Wales have already died in accidental water-related incidents in 2024, with officials warning that the real total could rise once coroners report on 19 additional cases. May 2024, officially recorded as the hottest May on record, also saw a notable increase in drownings compared to the previous year. Experts say the warmer air often masks the deadly danger posed by cold water temperatures. Despite the sunshine, open water in Wales – including rivers, lakes and even the sea – often remains below 16°C year-round. Entering cold water suddenly can trigger cold water shock, a powerful involuntary reaction that causes people to gasp, panic, and lose the ability to swim. Chris Cousens, Chair of Water Safety Wales, said: 'These latest figures on drowning deaths in Wales are deeply concerning. Each statistic represents a life lost and a family devastated. With the summer months approaching, it's crucial for everyone to prioritise water safety.' Data from the National Water Safety Forum's 2024 Water Incident Database (WAID) reveals that the majority of accidental drownings in Wales occurred in May, June, July, and November. Coastal waters were the most common location for fatalities, accounting for 56% of deaths, but rivers, lakes and reservoirs also posed significant risks. Recreational activities accounted for 67% of accidental deaths, including boating, angling, wild swimming and walking near water. Men continue to be disproportionately affected, making up 82% of fatalities, with the most at-risk age groups being 20–29, 50–59, and 70–79. Across the UK, 193 people died in accidental water-related incidents so far in 2024. Of these, 136 were in England, 33 in Scotland, 18 in Wales, and 6 in Northern Ireland. Water Safety Wales is backing the National Water Safety Forum's Respect The Water campaign, which offers clear, practical advice aimed at saving lives. Members of the public are being urged to remember two key responses: If you fall into water: Float to live. Tilt your head back, with ears submerged Move your arms slowly and try to relax Once the cold water shock passes, shout for help If you see someone in trouble: Call, Tell, Throw. Call 999 immediately Tell them to float on their back Throw something that floats, such as a life ring or even a plastic bottle Water Safety Wales will continue promoting the campaign through the summer, with a particular focus around World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July. For more details and life-saving tips, visit
Pembrokeshire Herald
01-06-2025
- Climate
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Drowning danger rises in warm Welsh weather, warn safety experts
18 accidental water deaths already recorded in 2024 AS TEMPERATURES rise and more families flock to rivers, lakes and coastlines, Water Safety Wales is warning of an increased risk of drowning across the country. New figures released this week show that 18 people in Wales have already died in accidental water-related incidents in 2024, with officials warning that the real total could rise once coroners report on 19 additional cases. May 2024, officially recorded as the hottest May on record, also saw a notable increase in drownings compared to the previous year. Experts say the warmer air often masks the deadly danger posed by cold water temperatures. Despite the sunshine, open water in Wales – including rivers, lakes and even the sea – often remains below 16°C year-round. Entering cold water suddenly can trigger cold water shock, a powerful involuntary reaction that causes people to gasp, panic, and lose the ability to swim. Chris Cousens, Chair of Water Safety Wales, said: 'These latest figures on drowning deaths in Wales are deeply concerning. Each statistic represents a life lost and a family devastated. With the summer months approaching, it's crucial for everyone to prioritise water safety.' Data from the National Water Safety Forum's 2024 Water Incident Database (WAID) reveals that the majority of accidental drownings in Wales occurred in May, June, July, and November. Coastal waters were the most common location for fatalities, accounting for 56% of deaths, but rivers, lakes and reservoirs also posed significant risks. Recreational activities accounted for 67% of accidental deaths, including boating, angling, wild swimming and walking near water. Men continue to be disproportionately affected, making up 82% of fatalities, with the most at-risk age groups being 20–29, 50–59, and 70–79. Across the UK, 193 people died in accidental water-related incidents so far in 2024. Of these, 136 were in England, 33 in Scotland, 18 in Wales, and 6 in Northern Ireland. Water Safety Wales is backing the National Water Safety Forum's Respect The Water campaign, which offers clear, practical advice aimed at saving lives. Members of the public are being urged to remember two key responses: If you fall into water: Float to live. Tilt your head back, with ears submerged Move your arms slowly and try to relax Once the cold water shock passes, shout for help If you see someone in trouble: Call, Tell, Throw. Call 999 immediately Tell them to float on their back Throw something that floats, such as a life ring or even a plastic bottle Water Safety Wales will continue promoting the campaign through the summer, with a particular focus around World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July. For more details and life-saving tips, visit
