On World Drowning Prevention Day (July 25), WHO released an investment case on drowning prevention showing how just two actions – investing in day care for pre-school aged children and teaching basic swim skills to school-age children – could protect millions of lives. Each dollar invested in these actions can yield benefits up to nine times the original value.

Drowning is an underappreciated but lethal public health issue. It has caused over 2.5 million deaths in the last decade, with an alarming 90% of these fatalities occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Across all age groups, children aged 1–4 years and 5–9 years experience the highest drowning rates, highlighting the need for immediate action to protect future generations.

Yet effective solutions exist. The new investment case shows that by 2050, increased global investment in just two measures could save the lives of over 774 000 children, prevent close to 1 million non-fatal child drownings, and avert severe and life-limiting injuries for 178 000 drowning victims.

It could also prevent potential economic losses of over $400 billion in low- and middle-income countries, and provide cumulative benefits valued at around $9 for each $1 invested. Countries such as Bangladesh, South Africa, Thailand and Vietnam have already invested in these cost-effective interventions, benefiting children and their families by reducing their risk of drowning, while simultaneously providing new opportunities for improved health, development and well-being.

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VIEW FACT SHEET ON DROWNING

There is hot, and then there is HOT! Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death.

Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards.

• Older adults, children and sick or overweight individuals are at greater risk from extreme heat.
• Humidity increases the feeling of heat.
• Learn the signs of heatstroke:

Signs of Heatstroke

• Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally
• Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness

If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives. Do not give the person anything to drink.

• Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
• If air conditioning is not available in your home go to a cooling center. Do not rely on a fan to keep you cool in extreme heat.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.
• Check on family members, older adults and neighbors.
• Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade.
• Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.

For more tips, see infographic at right or CLICK HERE