Hundreds of young schoolchildren gathered at the Grimaldi Forum on Wednesday, November 11, for a special campaign launch focussed on drowning prevention…
Organised by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, its mission is to reinforce the importance of water safety education from an early age. The annual initiative welcomed 315 pupils from 17 primary school classes, accompanied by 52 supervisors, for a morning of interactive activities designed to teach water safety skills.
The Foundation’s summer programme at Larvotto beach focussed on the dangers associated with open water and swimming pools. This latest event extended those lessons beyond the water, demonstrating that drowning risks exist throughout the year, including in domestic settings.
Good Morning Monaco ☀️
The day’s Monaco news in your inbox every morning. Free, unsubscribe anytime.
🔒 We won’t spam you or sell your data. Changed your mind? Unsubscribe with one click at the bottom of any email.
Ten educational workshops introduced children to a range of potential hazards, from swimming pools and beaches to less obvious dangers such as domestic bathtubs, emphasising that accidents can occur in surprisingly shallow water.
Particular attention was given to recognising emergencies and contacting rescue services. Children practised calling 18 and 112, they learnt how to explain their location and also how to describe an incident clearly.
Organised alongside Monaco’s education authorities, Red Cross, firefighters, maritime police and aquatic rescue specialists, the campaign combined expert guidance with engaging, age-appropriate activities.
With drowning remaining a serious public health concern, the Foundation’s preventative message was clear; water safety is a year-round responsibility. Teaching children to recognise danger, respond confidently in emergencies and develop responsible behaviour around water from an early age can help prevent tragedies and save lives.
Source: Monaco Info. Image: Tim Marshall
