The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new technical package designed to help governments and communities implement seven proven measures to reduce drowning deaths, according to a press release. Unveiled in Accra, Ghana, on 23 July 2026, the initiative arrives ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July. The package, known by the acronym PROTECT, translates global commitments into practical policy guidance. It targets both high-risk countries and communities exposed to water-related hazards. The move underscores WHO’s stated goal of curbing a preventable public health tragedy.
Nearly 300 000 people die from drowning each year worldwide, and drowning remains among the ten leading causes of death among children aged 5–14 years. Many deaths occur in rivers, lakes, wells, domestic water storage containers, and swimming pools. More than 90% of drowning deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. Climate change is increasing risks, with extreme weather events such as floods, storms, and heatwaves becoming more frequent. In the United Kingdom, research found that drowning deaths rise by 7.2% for every 1°C increase in temperature.
The PROTECT package builds on the first-ever Global Strategy for Drowning Prevention, launched by the WHO-hosted Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention in 2025. It provides evidence-informed recommendations across seven interconnected domains:
- 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;
- Threat preparedness for floods and other multi-hazard emergencies.
“Every drowning is a tragedy, and most are preventable,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “The seven PROTECT strategies give countries practical, evidence-based approaches to prevent these tragedies, including making water transport safer, teaching school kids to swim, and preparing for floods.”
The launch takes place in Ghana in recognition of the country’s growing political commitment to drowning prevention. An estimated 1100 people die from drowning in Ghana annually, equivalent to around three deaths every day, with children and young adults disproportionately affected. Dr Kelly Henning, who leads the public health program at Bloomberg Philanthropies, said the framework “will save lives while building on the progress governments around the world are making to prevent drowning deaths.”
Since 2014, Bloomberg Philanthropies has partnered with WHO on drowning prevention, supporting foundational resources that have guided global best practices, including the PROTECT technical package. The launch builds on more than a decade of collaboration between WHO, governments, and partners to advance evidence-based action worldwide. This year’s World Drowning Prevention Day theme, “Unite to turn the tide,” reflects the need for coordinated action across governments, sectors, and communities. WHO is urging other governments to adopt evidence-based policies that reduce drowning deaths and protect communities at risk. The organization confirmed its intent to continue supporting local governments as they apply the PROTECT technical package.
