Princess Charlene of Monaco has called on the public to stay alert near water as she marked World Drowning Prevention Day with a safety message. The 48-year-old former Olympic swimmer shared a statement through the Monaco royal family's Instagram account, highlighting that many water-related deaths are avoidable.
Global Drowning Statistics
This year's World Drowning Prevention Day focused on the theme "Unite to turn the tide," with a goal to reduce drowning deaths by 35% by 2035. According to the World Health Organisation, more than 300,000 people die from drowning each year—about 30 deaths every hour. Nearly one in four victims is a child under five, and drowning ranks among the top 10 causes of death for children aged five to 14.
Princess Charlene's Statement
In her message, Princess Charlene said: "On this World Drowning Prevention Day, I would like to remind everyone that these tragedies are often preventable." She added: "learning to swim, knowing lifesaving techniques and remaining vigilant can save lives."
The princess also emphasised the work of her charity: "Every summer, the Princess Charlene Foundation reinforces this commitment through an awareness campaign in Monaco and several coastal cities, promoting safe behaviours and reminding as many people as possible of the essential steps they can take to stay safe."
Personal Connection to Drowning Prevention
Princess Charlene established the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation in 2012, focusing on preventing drowning and teaching water safety through sport. The cause is personal: she lost her five-year-old cousin Richard, who drowned in a river, and in 2018, the 19-month-old daughter of a close friend drowned after wandering into a neighbour's garden and falling into a pool.
Concluding her statement, the princess said: "As periods of extreme heat lead more people to the water, prevention is more important than ever. Drowning gives no warning; a few seconds of attention can make all the difference. Together, let us make water safety a priority for everyone."
