United Nations recognizes the importance of drowning throughout the world. In 2019, an estimated 236,000 people died from drowning, making drowning a major public health problem worldwide. In 2019, injuries accounted for almost 8% of total global mortality. Drowning is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury death, accounting for 7% of all injury-related deaths. 

The global burden of death from drowning is felt in all economies and regions, however:

• low- and middle-income countries account for over 90% of unintentional drowning deaths;

• over half of the world's drowning occurs in the WHO Western Pacific Region and WHO South-East Asia Region;

• drowning death rates are highest in the WHO Western Pacific Region, and are 27-32 times higher than those seen in the United Kingdom or Germany, respectively.

World’s Largest Swim Lesson

Whether you’re working in the office, at home, in the air, or on the water, all boating enthusiasts can participate in Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day on Friday, May 20, 2022. This fun day is part of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages boaters to make the most of their boating adventure by being responsible.

“Bring the fun on Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day! No matter your age, this is a great opportunity to share with others your love for boating – and be entered for a chance to win a prize,” said Yvonne Pentz, communications director of the National Safe Boating Council, a nonprofit dedicated to helping create a safe boating experience for all boaters and the lead organization of the Safe Boating Campaign.

Here’s how to participate:

1. Wear a life jacket wherever you work

2. Snap a picture

3. Post the picture on social media with the hashtag #wearyourlifejacketatworkday

4. Tag the Safe Boating Campaign (@boatingcampaign)