Greek Red Cross issues eight water safety tips to help prevent drownings
The Hellenic Red Cross (HRC) has issued eight practical water safety guidelines as part of its nationwide “Enjoy the Water Safely” campaign, aimed at raising public awareness and preventing drownings during the summer season.
The guidelines were prepared by the HRC’s Lifeguard School, which warns that drowning can happen silently within just a few seconds, often without shouting or obvious signs of distress.
According to recent data from the Greek National Public Health Organization (EODY) cited by the Hellenic Red Cross, Greece has recorded an average of 378 drowning deaths per year over the past five years, with the majority occurring at sea.
The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies drowning as the third leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide, accounting for around 300,000 deaths annually. Children under the age of five account for almost a quarter of drowning victims, while people aged over 70 also face a high risk of fatal drowning.
Eight water safety rules
The Hellenic Red Cross recommends the following precautions:
- Swim at safe, organized beaches. Follow lifeguard instructions and pay attention to the beach warning flags.
- Do not enter the water immediately after eating or consuming alcohol.
- Enter the water gradually, particularly when the water is very cold, to reduce the risk of thermal shock.
- Do not swim too far from the shore and always swim parallel to the coastline.
- Never dive into unfamiliar waters. Rocks and other underwater hazards may be present.
- Children should always remain within close reach of an adult, even when wearing a flotation device.
- Wear a life jacket when taking part in activities such as canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
- Do not panic if caught in a current. Swim parallel to the shore until you move out of the current, then head toward the beach.
- The Hellenic Red Cross is urging the public to follow basic safety precautions and remain vigilant around water, particularly when children and older adults are involved.
