Venice’s coastline turned into an open-air classroom on Wednesday, July 23, as 140 children took part in the first-ever Water Safety Day organised in Italy by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation. The initiative, aimed at teaching lifesaving skills and drowning prevention, was hosted in Jesolo with the backing of the Monegasque Honorary Consulate in Venice.
The event came at the perfect time: Italy’s long summer holiday season often sees thousands flock to beaches, making water safety education more crucial than ever. Honorary Consul Anna Licia Balzan, who spearheaded the project alongside local authorities, said the enthusiastic response from Jesolo’s recreational centres proved how timely and necessary such programmes are.
Throughout the day, children aged 6 to 12 were guided by instructors from the Italian Rescue Federation through a series of hands-on workshops. From performing cardiac massage to clearing airways, the youngsters mastered essential first aid techniques. They also learned to recognise local aquatic risks and, armed with rescue boards, practised group rescue drills under the watchful eyes of lifeguards.
One of the highlights was a demonstration featuring lifeguard dogs, which delighted participants while showcasing the animals’ vital role in sea rescues. The event was fully inclusive, with accessible facilities ensuring children with disabilities could take part in every activity.
Jesolo’s mayor, Christofer De Zotti, attended the opening ceremony alongside officials and Xavier Archimbault, the Foundation’s representative. Each child left not just with a souvenir T-shirt and gifts, but with potentially life-saving knowledge.
The success of the day has already sparked interest in expanding the programme to other Italian seaside towns. Organisers say this model is simple, effective, and could be reproduced across the country. For the Princess Charlene Foundation, which has long championed water safety worldwide, Jesolo’s debut event was more than a local success – it was a step towards creating a new generation of young lifesavers.
