Drowning prevention gains momentum as WHO launches PROTECT

WHO has unveiled PROTECT, a seven-point technical package designed to prevent drowning ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, to help governments and communities reduce the roughly 300,000 drowning deaths each year. The seven pillars cover safer water infrastructure, improved rescue and resuscitation services, occupational water safety, stronger water transport standards, swimming and water safety education, child protection systems, and emergency preparedness for floods and other water-related disasters. Drowning remains a leading cause of death for children aged 5–14, with more than 90% of fatalities occurring in low- and middle-income countries, a burden intensified by climate change and extreme weather events. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that every drowning is preventable and urged cross-sector action, noting Ghana’s launch as a demonstration of commitment. The PROTECT package expands on the Global Strategy for Drowning Prevention launched in 2025, with international support aimed at substantially reducing deaths by 2035, including a projected 35% global reduction target. Ghana’s role and international collaboration underpin the effort to translate policy into practical interventions that can be adapted across countries and contexts.