Drowning Prevention
In the past decade, drowning has been the cause of over 2.5 million preventable deaths worldwide. African nations, including Uganda, are disproportionately affected by unintentional drowning, with one of the most at risk groups being children and adolescents. Drowning is preventable through low-cost, collaborative interventions and research involving community engagement and partnerships.
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Energy In Action is committed to contributing to existing and future efforts to reduce the burden of drowning in Uganda and beyond. To do this, Energy In Action is implementing a comprehensive drowning prevention strategy in Uganda in partnership with multiple local, national, and international stakeholders, including community-based research, educational programming, and policy support.
Policy
Splash Safe Camps
Our Splash Safe Camp trains youth in water safety, drowning prevention, first aid and swim survival. The youth are also introduced to the joys of water polo through splash ball exercises and games. Camp participants who pass a basic water safety exam at the end of camp to receive Splash Safe Ambassador certificates. Watch a recap of the 2023 Camp Volunteer experience HERE!
Youth Drowning Prevention Ambassadors Program
In partnership with Swim Safe Uganda and University of Southern California, EIA identifies and trains Youth Drowning Prevention Ambassadors throughout Uganda. The training entails community drowning prevention strategies, water safety education, survival swimming, aquatic rescue, and pre-hospital care. The Youth Ambassadors receive Certificates of Participation in the training program, are invited to annual WDPD events, and assist EIA with drowning prevention research.
World Drowning Prevention Day
World Drowning Prevention Day takes place each year on July 25. To commemorate the day, Energy In Action partners with key stakeholders to raise awareness and advocate for policy change and investment in programs that will prevent and reduce drowning deaths.