Water Safety Resources
Help preventable drowning by learning and teaching those around you water safety education
Every Life Matters Around Water
Water is part of who we are as New Zealanders. We swim, fish, boat, surf, explore rivers, and spend time around pools, beaches, lakes, and waterways. While water offers enjoyment and recreation, it also presents risks that can change lives forever.
Drowning is one of the leading causes of preventable injury-related death worldwide, particularly among children and young people. The good news is that drowning is preventable, and simple actions can save lives.
At Aquatic Survival Skills Trust, we believe everyone should have the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to stay safe in and around water. This resource hub provides information, tips, and guidance to help individuals, families, schools, and communities make safer decisions around water every day.
Water Safety Matters
Every year, hundreds of thousands of people around the world lose their lives to drowning. Children under five years of age are among the most vulnerable, and more than half of all drowning deaths occur among people under 30 years old.
Many drowning incidents happen close to home, during everyday activities, and often when supervision lapses for only a moment. Drowning can occur quickly and quietly, making awareness and preparation essential.
Water Safety Principles to Remember
Always Supervise Children Around Water
Active adult supervision is one of the most effective ways to prevent drowning.
Stay within arm's reach of young children.
Avoid distractions such as phones, conversations, or alcohol.
Never assume someone else is watching.
Designate a responsible water watcher when multiple adults are present.
Children can get into difficulty silently and in a matter of seconds.
Learn Swimming and Water Survival Skills
Learning to swim is important, but survival skills go beyond swimming strokes.
Essential skills include:
Floating and conserving energy
Safe entries and exits
Understanding water hazards
Basic rescue awareness
Knowing what to do if unexpectedly immersed in water
Teaching children basic swimming and water safety skills is recognised internationally as a key drowning prevention strategy.
Respect the Water
Conditions can change quickly.
Before entering any waterway:
Check weather and water conditions.
Understand local hazards.
Be aware of currents, tides, and river flows.
Stay within your abilities.
Never overestimate your swimming capability.
Confidence is valuable, but good judgement saves lives.
Wear a Lifejacket When Appropriate
Whether boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or participating in other water activities, a correctly fitted lifejacket can significantly increase your chances of survival if something goes wrong.
A lifejacket should be worn, not simply carried.
Know How to Respond in an Emergency
If someone is in trouble:
Call emergency services immediately.
Reach or throw something that floats if safe to do so.
Avoid entering the water unless you are trained and capable.
Learn CPR and basic first aid.
Safe rescue skills are an important part of effective drowning prevention.
Supporting World Drowning Prevention Day
Every year on 25 July, the global community recognises World Drowning Prevention Day. Established by the United Nations, this day raises awareness of drowning as a preventable public health issue and promotes proven actions that save lives. As part of our commitment to drowning prevention, Aquatic Survival Skills Trust supports education, advocacy, and practical learning opportunities that empower people of all ages to stay safer around water.
Water Safety Starts at Home
Many water hazards exist in everyday environments, it's important to take time to:
Secure pools with compliant fencing and gates.
Empty buckets, paddling pools, and containers after use.
Cover water hazards where possible.
Create safe play areas away from water.
Discuss water safety regularly with children.
Controlling access to water hazards is one of the most effective drowning prevention measures available.
Building Water Confidence for Life
Water safety is a lifelong journey and children benefit from repeated exposure to:
Water confidence activities
Swimming lessons
Survival skill development
Safe rescue awareness
Practical experiences in different aquatic environments
By building these skills over time, we can help create safer communities and reduce preventable drowning.
Get in Touch For More Info
Learn More
Together, we can build a future where every child, every family, and every community has the skills and knowledge needed to enjoy water safely. For further information on global drowning prevention and evidence-based water safety strategies you can learn more.
