Monaco marked World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25 with a public awareness event at the Rainier III Nautical Stadium, organised by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation in partnership with Monaco City Hall and a number of local emergency services…
The initiative aimed to highlight the importance of water safety and equip residents and visitors with the knowledge needed to prevent drowning. According to the World Health Organization, drowning claims nearly 300,000 lives worldwide each year and remains one of the leading causes of death among children and young people.
Throughout the day, visitors were able to explore a dedicated prevention village featuring practical demonstrations by the Monaco Red Cross, firefighters and the Maritime Police. Experts explained life-saving first aid techniques and showcased specialist rescue equipment, including the Lucas automated chest compression device, which delivers consistent CPR and can be particularly valuable in challenging environments such as aboard boats.
Rescue demonstrations also illustrated the importance of quick intervention, while ambassadors for the Princess Charlene Foundation encouraged the public to learn basic life-saving skills, stressing that drowning can happen unexpectedly and that knowing how to respond can save lives.
Organisers also reinforced a simple but vital message: learning to swim remains one of the most effective ways to prevent drowning. In 2025, the Rainier III Nautical Stadium provided 813 swimming lessons as part of that ongoing effort.
Image: Monaco Info