National Drowning Prevention Day
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July 25
National Drowning Prevention Day
Show your support on National Drowning Prevention Day - learn the facts, spread the word, and help save lives!
Introduction
July 25th marks National Drowning Prevention Day, a day to bring awareness to the dangers of drowning and how to prevent it. This day was created in 2008 by the World Health Organization as part of their Global Water Safety Initiative. It serves to remind everyone that even though water is fun and enjoyable, there are risks involved that must be acknowledged in order for us all stay safe this summer!
National Drowning Prevention Day Timeline
1800s
First Swimming Schools
During the 1800s, the first swimming schools were established in Europe and America to teach individuals how to swim, a key to drowning prevention.
1974
American Red Cross's Emergency Care Program
The American Red Cross initiated the Emergency Care Program in 1974 that provides water safety training, including CPR and rescue techniques.
1983
Establishment of Safe Kids Worldwide
The organization Safe Kids Worldwide was founded in 1983 to help prevent accidental childhood injury, including drowning prevention.
2001
CDC Starts Drowning Prevention Program
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began a comprehensive drowning prevention program, offering resources and education on water safety.
2008
First National Drowning Prevention Day
The World Health Organization established National Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, 2008, as part of their Global Water Safety Initiative.
How to Celebrate National Drowning Prevention Day
1
Learn CPR
Take a course in CPR and know how to save a life in case of an emergency. You could even get certified if you want to take it a step further.
2
Teach your kids water safety
Take time to show your children proper pool safety, supervise them around any body of water, and explain the risks of drowning.
3
Organize a beach clean up
Gather friends and family together and organize a beach clean up. Removing debris from the beach can help reduce the risk of someone getting hurt or drowning.
4
Attend a drowning prevention event
See if there are any events in your area organized around National Drowning Prevention Day and attend one. You’ll likely learn more about water safety and what can be done to prevent drownings.
5
Donate to drowning prevention organizations
Make a donation to drowning prevention organizations like the American Red Cross, YMCA, or others that are dedicated to making sure everyone learns how to be safe in the water.
Why National Drowning Prevention Day is Important
A
Drowning is preventable
Drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional injury and death for children in the U.S. However, it is also completely preventable by taking steps to learn about water safety, like knowing basic rescue techniques and making sure that all children are supervised around water.
B
Drowning can be deadly
Most people don't realize how quickly a drowning can occur or how deadly it can be if not prevented. Drowning can occur within seconds without warning - it doesn't necessarily involve loud calls for help or flailing arms as many people may think. Therefore, it's important to always take every precaution when swimming in rivers, lakes and oceans.
C
Water safety education is essential
It's important to educate yourself and those you care about on proper water safety measures so that everyone knows how to stay safe while enjoying the water. National Drowning Prevention Day is a great time to talk to friends and family members about these topics and share tips on how to swim safely.
National Drowning Prevention Day Dates
Year
Date
Day
2023
Jul 25
Tuesday
2024
Jul 25
Thursday
2025
Jul 25
Friday
2026
Jul 25
Saturday
2027
Jul 25
Sunday