Marking World Drowning Prevention Day, the SWIMSAFE – Safe Return of Swimmers to Nature project reminds everyone who enjoys open water that safety begins before we even step into the water. Through a shared educational framework, partners from Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia aim to make swimming in rivers, lakes and the sea safer and more responsible.
Open water is different from a pool – conditions can change within minutes due to currents, cold water, wind, poor visibility or the weather. That is why SWIMSAFE highlights one simple rule: prevention before rescue and never alone.
If you find yourself in difficulty, a calm sequence of actions is key:
FLOAT – BREATHE – SIGNAL – DECIDE. Roll onto your back and float, slow your breathing, signal for help, and only then calmly decide how to exit. Do not swim during storms, in very cold water, in strong currents, in poor visibility, or on your own.
Let’s use 25 July to talk about water safety in our families, clubs and communities. With a little knowledge and caution – anyone can drown, but no one should.
The SWIMSAFE project is co-funded by the European Union. This content is educational and does not replace national legislation, lifeguard training or medical advice.