National Sea Rescue Institute rallies for World Drowning Prevention Day

Staff Reporter|Published
On July 25th, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) will unite with communities across South Africa and around the globe to recognise World Drowning Prevention Day—a significant initiative initiated by the United Nations and supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

As communities across South Africa and around the globe gear up to observe World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, 2025 the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is once again at the forefront of a critical initiative.

Under the theme, “Your story can save a life,” the NSRI emphasises that drowning prevention transcends mere water safety education; it hinges on the power of storytelling.

It is explained that sharing personal experiences and narratives has the potential to transform behaviours and influence community actions, ultimately saving lives. This United Nations and World Health Organization (WHO) observance, celebrated annually, aims to foster awareness, remembrance, and actionable measures to combat the silent epidemic of drowning.

The institute reveals that drowning remains a grave concern worldwide, claiming over 236 000 lives each year, positioning it as one of the leading causes of mortality for children aged five to 14. “This is not just a statistic; it’s a call to action,” states Mike Vonk, the CEO of NSRI.

“World Drowning Prevention Day reminds us that while anyone can drown, no one should.” This assertion rings particularly true for South Africa, which boasts over 3 000kms of coastline and countless rivers, lakes, and dams, presenting unique water safety challenges.

Since its inception, the NSRI has shifted its focus from reactive emergency response to proactive education aimed at preventing drowning tragedies. Leveraging insights from real-life incidents, the NSRI has embarked on several educational initiatives that have had a profound impact:

  • Water Safety Education: The NSRI has reached more than 5.5 million South Africans, imparting essential skills, including bystander CPR.
  • Survival Swimming: In collaboration with local communities, the NSRI teaches children in under-resourced areas vital survival skills such as breathing control, orientation in water, floating, and swimming.
  • The Pink Rescue Buoy Project: Since its launch in 2017, over 1 800 Pink Buoys have been deployed across South Africa, directly contributing to the rescue of at least 221 lives.
  • NSRI SafeTRX App: This free app allows small craft users to log their trips, track movements, and alert emergency services in times of crisis.

In 2024 alone, the NSRI delivered an impressive 877 485 water safety lessons and conducted 25 000 survival swimming classes, empowering countless communities with life-saving knowledge.

This World Drowning Prevention Day, the institute calls on all South Africans to raise awareness and adopt safer behaviours around water. Here are some actionable steps every individual can take to make a meaningful difference:

  • Learn to swim: Ensure you and your children possess basic water survival skills.
  • Supervise children: Drowning is often silent; always keep a vigilant eye on children near water.
  • Avoid alcohol near water: Maintain alertness and control when engaging around water activities.
  • Check conditions before you swim: Always assess water and weather conditions prior to entering.
  • Use proper safety gear: Remember, lifejackets save lives. 

Saturday Star