Nearly 300,000 people lose their lives to drowning every year, with over 90% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The agency said many drowning deaths happen in rivers, lakes, wells, domestic water storage containers and swimming pools. Drowning also remains one of the ten leading causes of death among children aged 5–14 years worldwide.
WHO warned that climate change is increasing drowning risks, as floods, storms and heatwaves are becoming more frequent.
“Every drowning is a tragedy, and most are preventable,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
Ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July, WHO has launched a new technical package called PROTECT, designed to help governments and communities implement seven proven measures to reduce drowning deaths.
The package translates the Global Strategy for Drowning Prevention, launched in 2025 by the WHO-hosted Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention, into practical, actionable policy guidance. It offers evidence-informed recommendations across seven interconnected domains to strengthen safety around water:
- Physical infrastructure that promotes safe interaction with water;
- Rescue and resuscitation capability for bystanders and professional responders;
- Occupational safety for work around water;
- Transport safety standards for water travel;
- Education in basic swimming and water safety;
- Child‑care systems and ensure safeguarding; and
- Threat preparedness for floods and other multi‑hazard emergencies.
“Drowning prevention isn’t the job of one ministry; it belongs to everyone, and the lives it saves are the reward,” Dr Tedros said.
The PROTECT package is being launched in Ghana in recognition of the country’s growing political commitment to drowning prevention and its ongoing efforts to strengthen water safety.
This year’s World Drowning Prevention Day theme, “Unite to turn the tide,” highlights the importance of coordinated action by governments, communities and multiple sectors to prevent drowning and save lives.
