According to the World Health Organization, each year, 6 to 7 in every 1,000 deaths in the Philippines are caused by accidental drowning. A study by Jonathan P. Guevara et. al.(2021), published online in open-access research portal MDPI, found that in the Philippines, children are at a greater risk of accidental drowning compared to adults. As to adults, WHO reports that 13% of drowning deaths in the Philippines is associated with alcohol.
One cause of drowning is rip current, a localized current that flows away from the shoreline toward the ocean. PRC warns of rip current and says deaths can be avoided through training. “It only takes a second for a child or someone who is not a good swimmer to drown. Death and injury from drownings, especially at the beach, happen every day. The Philippine Red Cross trains people of all ages and occupations in water safety,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon.
To survive a rip current, do not panic. Allow the water to tumble you around. Once you have aligned yourself with the water surface, swim upward. Swim slowly back to the shore at an angle. If you can, call and wave for help.
Drowning in children may be prevented by ensuring that a trusted adult watches over them. Children’s access to water may also be controlled. Use of water for leisure activities should be regulated. To assist someone who is drowning, immediately call for help. Extend a branch or a stick that the person can hold onto. Throw the person a lifejacket or floating device. Row towards the person if you can get to a boat. Only if you are a strong swimmer should you swim towards the person to pull him out of the water.
PRC believes that water activities can be safer and more enjoyable if people have the skills to save themselves and others in case of an emergency. To know more about the Philippine Red Cross Water Safety Program, contact the PRC Safety Services at (+63 2) 8790-2365, (+63 2) 8790-2300 loc. 934/933, safety@redcross.org.ph, or visit the PRC website at www.redcross.org.ph/trainings/.
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