WORLD DROWNING PREVENTION DAY 2026
25 July 2026
On World Drowning Prevention Day, the Cyprus Hotel Managers Association – PASYDIXE – supports the World Health Organization’s campaign under the message:
“Unite to Turn the Tide.”
More than 300,000 people die from drowning worldwide every year. Although global drowning rates have declined, drowning remains one of the most preventable causes of death.
For Cyprus—an island nation and major tourism destination—water safety must remain a national priority. Prevention begins before an emergency occurs, through active supervision, trained personnel, safe infrastructure, clear information and coordinated action.
PASYDIXE calls on public authorities, municipalities, lifeguard services, hotels, swimming-pool and water-park operators, boat and excursion providers, water-sports operators, schools, families and visitors to work together.
Priority actions include:
- Active supervision of children around water.
- Adequate lifeguard coverage and maintained rescue equipment.
- Clear, visible and multilingual safety information.
- Regular CPR, first-aid and emergency-response training.
- Safe barriers and controlled access around pools.
- Strict use of lifejackets and compliance with boating and water-sports safety rules.
- Water-safety education for children.
- Proper recording and evaluation of incidents.
“The most successful rescue is the rescue that never needs to take place. Cyprus must move from reacting to emergencies to preventing them. Every authority, tourism business, professional and family has a role to play.” Nick Aristou, President of PASYDIXE
PASYDIXE invites every hotel and tourism establishment to mark the Day with a practical Water-Safety Reset:
Check the equipment. Brief the team. Review the emergency plan. Inspect the signs and barriers. Recognise the professionals who protect lives every day.
World Drowning Prevention Day is more than a symbolic anniversary. It is an opportunity to build a safer Cyprus for residents, employees, families and visitors.
Every life counts. Every action matters. Everyone has a role to play.