Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Each year, nearly 300,000 people worldwide die from drowning, mainly in low- and middle-income countries and frequently involving children aged 5 to 14 years. Most incidents occur in natural and domestic water settings, such as rivers, lakes, wells, and swimming pools.
Climate change increases drowning risks due to more frequent extreme weather events, including floods, storms, and heatwaves. UK research shows a 7.2% rise in drowning deaths for every 1°C increase in temperature, with the risk nearly five times higher on days over 25°C compared to days below 10°C.
In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a technical package called PROTECT, offering seven evidence-informed strategies to reduce drowning deaths. These strategies address physical safety infrastructure, rescue and resuscitation training, occupational safety in water-related jobs, water transport safety standards, swimming and water safety education, safeguarding childcare systems, and preparedness for floods and multi-hazard emergencies.
The PROTECT package supports the Global Strategy for Drowning Prevention introduced in 2025 by the WHO-hosted Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention, aiming to guide policy and enhance water safety worldwide.
Ghana is the launch country for this package, highlighting its commitment to prevention. The country faces an estimated 1,100 drowning deaths annually, disproportionately affecting children and young adults, averaging about three deaths per day.