Each year, lives are tragically lost to drowning; often silently, quickly, and without warning. World Drowning Prevention Day, (Friday 25 July), is a global opportunity to raise awareness and share life-saving solutions to prevent drowning from happening.
Drowning Can Happen to Anyone
Whether you’re heading to the coast, walking by a river, or enjoying a canal-side stroll with your dog, it’s important to be aware of the risks. In the UK, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death, with people often underestimating the power and danger of open water.
The National Water Safety Forum (NWSF) is encouraging everyone to learn a lifesaving skill this summer: Float to Live.
Float to Live: It Could Save Your Life
If you find yourself in trouble in the water, Float to Live is a simple, proven technique that can help you stay calm and stay afloat. Cold water shock can cause a sudden gasp, rapid breathing and panic; increasing the risk of drowning.
By practicing how to float at your local swimming pool, lifeguarded beach or supervised open water swimming venue, you’re better prepared for what to do in an emergency.
What to do:
- Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
- Relax and try to breathe normally.
- Move your arms and legs to improve stability.
- Don’t worry if your legs sink, we all float differently.
- When the initial shock has passed, shout for help or swim to safety if you can.
This technique gives you precious time to regain control of your breathing, stay afloat, and increase your chances of rescue or self-rescue.
Keep Dogs Safe Near Water
As the weather warms up, many people enjoy walking their dogs near rivers, lakes, and canals. If your dog jumps or falls into the water:
- Do not go in after them
- Try to guide them back or use something that floats
- Call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service if needed
Dogs are often strong swimmers and may get out on their own. Sadly, some owners lose their lives trying to rescue them.
Cold Water Shock: A Silent Threat
Even in summer, open water is much colder than people expect. Falling in can trigger cold water shock, causing panic, muscle cramps, and difficulty breathing.
Knowing how to Float to Live gives you time to get your breathing under control and signal for help.
A Quick Note on Boat Fire Safety
While the focus of this day is drowning prevention, it’s important to remember that fire safety also matters on our waterways. If you live on a boat or know someone who does, make sure you’re aware of basic fire safety. You can find more advice on this in our dedicated boat fire safety article Stay Safe on the Water: Boat Fire Safety Tips for 2025 – Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service
Education and Resources from StayWise
With many school pupils already enjoying their summer break and others just finishing up after exams, it’s important that children and young people stay vigilant around water during the holidays. Whether spending time at the beach, by rivers, lakes or even paddling pools at home, we’re urging families to talk about water safety and remind children to respect the water, understand the risks, and know what to do in an emergency.
To support water safety awareness efforts, NFCC StayWise has collated a range of free resources suitable for young people. These materials can help start important conversations and support learning around the risks of open water and how to stay safe.
You can explore these resources at:
👉 staywise.co.uk/calendar/campaign/world-drowning-prevention-day
Together, we can help more people enjoy the water safely this summer.