World Drowning Prevention Day 2026
Help prevent drowning this summer
Every year, people lose their lives to drowning, often in situations that happen quickly and unexpectedly. As more people head to the coast, rivers, lakes and other open water during the warmer months, it’s vital that everyone understands how to stay safe.
World Drowning Prevention Day (25 July) is a global awareness day that highlights the devastating impact drowning has on families and communities, as well as the lifesaving solutions that prevent it.
This page brings together key advice, resources and messages you can share to help spread awareness and keep people safe this summer.
The UK Drowning Prevention Strategy 2026-2030
On 25 July 2026 – to coincide with World Drowning Prevention Day – the National Water Safety Forum and its partners will publish a new Drowning Prevention Strategy for the UK, along with four new national strategies for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Together, these new strategies set out a bold new vision for drowning prevention in the UK, with the ambition of building a future in which everyone can be safe in, on and around the water.
Find Your Float for World Drowning Prevention Day
To mark the launch of the new strategy and World Drowning Prevention Day 2026, we’re asking you to help us save lives and prevent drowning by "finding your float”.
Floating is a science-backed, lifesaving skill that could save your life if you get into trouble in the water. But everybody floats differently. “Find Your Float” encourages everyone to practice how to float in a safe and supervised location, such as a swimming pool or a lifeguarded beach, helping you be prepared should you need to use the skill in an emergency.
How to Find Your Float:
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Tilt your head back with your ears submerged under the water.
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Relax and try to breathe normally.
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Move your hands to help you stay afloat – don’t worry if your legs sink; everybody floats differently.
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Spread your arms and legs to improve stability in the water.
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Once you feel calm, shout for help or swim to safety if you can.
Key findings
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- Drownings most often happen at inland water locations like rivers, lakes and canals.
- Around 84% of drowning victims are male.
- Drowning is often quick and silent, with little or no warning.
- Cold water shock can affect breathing and movement within seconds.
- Many people who drown accidentally did not intend to enter the water, and were instead taking part in everyday activities like running, walking or cycling.
- Being aware of risks and hazards, as well as what to do in an emergency, can help prevent drowning incidents.
Discover key insights from RoSPA’s Annual Review of Accidents, analysing trends, causes and inequalities in accidental harm to guide effective prevention and build a safer society.
Appendices
- Appendix 1 - Cause of deaths
- Appendix 2 - Hospital admissions