On 25 July, the WHO’s World Drowning Prevention Day unites us all as we strive to make a difference to prevent drowning. On this day especially, we remember the lives lost in the waters of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Last year, we grieved the devastating loss of 94 lives, marking the highest toll in a decade. We need you to get involved this July to change that. Join the ‘DPA going blue’ movement – We are calling on organisations, schools, clubs and communities around the motu to jump on board.

Dive into our World Drowning Prevention Day activities. Explore our resources and ideas for events and fundraising, plus learn a new survival skill with our Float first educational resources – it might just save your life or the life of someone you love.

Would you know what to do if you fell into our cold, New Zealand waters this winter? How would you survive if strong currents took you out to sea? Knowing how to respond in the first 60-90 seconds can make the difference between life and death.

In an emergency, panic or cold water shock can lead to drowning or cardiac arrest. Even the strongest swimmers can be affected.

Floating as your first response will increase your chances of staying alive.

Think you can float already?

Most adults can’t float as well as they think they can.
Our recent study found that most adults think they can float, and two-thirds think they can float for more than five minutes. In-water testing revealed that only two percent could float more than five minutes, with one-third floating for less than 15 seconds (Stanley, 2021).

Going Blue Gallery