Knowing July sees the peak of water-related incidents each year, the Lifesaving Society chooses the 3rd week of July as National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW). This is a public awareness campaign each year to build community and media support for the drowning prevention cause.
NDPW provides an opportunity for local Water Smart® experts to promote the Society’s messages of safety on the water and to encourage everyone to think ahead before heading for their favourite lake or river. Pools and waterfronts throughout BC & Yukon help to communicate preventative drowning information and promote water safety education through public events and media campaigns.
The Lifesaving Society of BC & Yukon provides resources for local government proclamation initiatives, media campaigns, public training and public events.
Community Support Through Proclamations
Every year, communities across British Columbia and Yukon join us in supporting National Drowning Prevention Week by issuing official proclamations. These proclamations raise awareness of the importance of water safety and drowning prevention at the local level, encouraging residents to adopt safe practices in and around the water. By declaring July 20-26, 2025, as National Drowning Prevention Week, local governments across the region amplify our message and help save lives. We are grateful for their support and recognition of this important initiative.
2025 Proclamations of Support
Below is a list of municipalities and local governments that have officially proclaimed National Drowning Prevention Week in 2025:
- District of Highlands
- District of Kitimat
- District of North Saanich
- District of Port Hardy
- District of Squamish
- District of Tumbler Ridge
- Resort Municipality of Whistler
- Town of Oliver
- Town of View Royal
- Village of Belcarra
“Make Waves” at Kitsilano Beach
This year’s National Drowning Prevention Week theme is #SaferTogether, a powerful a reminder that water safety is a shared responsibility.
Throughout NDPW, the Lifesaving Society – BC & Yukon will be at Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver sharing practical tips and resources to help people of all ages learn how to be safer in, on, and around the water. Visitors can engage in a series of fun, family-friendly activities and will also have the chance to take part in a unique, interactive display – a collaborative painting where everyone can “make waves” by colouring in the ocean, symbolizing a shared commitment to water safety.
Plus, don’t miss an eye-catching 6-foot illuminated “Be Water Smart” marquee installation reminding individuals to think ahead, make safe choices, and stay alert around the water!
To kick off this important week of national advocacy, the Lifesaving Society – BC & Yukon will also host an official Launch Ceremony at Kitsilano Pool on Sunday, July 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Government leaders, community partners, health authorities, emergency services, and other key stakeholders committed to public safety will come together to show their collective commitment to drowning prevention. A special thanks to the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation for generously providing the facility for this event.
World Drowning Prevention Day
In April 2021, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a historic resolution recognizing drowning as a global public health issue and calling for coordinated, multisectoral action to address it. As a result, World Drowning Prevention Day is now observed worldwide every year on July 25.
This global awareness day takes place during National Drowning Prevention. It shines a spotlight on the devastating impact of drowning as a leading cause of injury-related death and disability worldwide, and calls on individuals, organizations, and governments across the globe to unite in raising awareness, promoting water safety, and taking life-saving action.
Find out moreLandmarks “Go Blue” for World Drowning Prevention Day
In recognition of World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, landmarks and public sites across British Columbia will be illuminated in blue to raise awareness about drowning prevention.
We are proud to see so many iconic locations joining this global effort, turning blue to shine a light – both literally and symbolically – on the importance of water safety and drowning prevention.
The following landmarks will light up in blue on July 25 in support of this important initiative:
- Bastion, Nanaimo
- BC Legislative Assembly, Victoria
- BC Place, Vancouver
- Burrard Street Bridge, Vancouver
- Canada Place (Sails of Light), Vancouver
- Confederation Garden Park, Victoria
- Duncan City Hall, Duncan
- Fitzsimmons Covered Bridge, Whistler
- Ladysmith City Hall, Ladysmith
- Ladysmith sign, Ladysmith
- Lafarge Lake Fountain, Coquitlam
- Municipal Hall Tower, Sechelt
- New Westminster City Hall, New Westminster
- Olympic Cauldron, Vancouver
- Pacific Coliseum, Vancouver
- Pinetree Way Light Columns, Coquitlam
- Port Coquitlam City Hall, Port Coquitlam
- Port Moody City Hall, Port Moody
- Science World , Vancouver
- Spirit of Sail (The Sails), Kelowna
- Vancouver City Hall, Vancouver
- Vancouver Convention Centre, Vancouver
- Victoria Street Bridge, Trail
- White Rock Pier, White Rock (lighting up in blue on July 26)
- Williams Lake City Hall, Williams Lake
- YVR Air Traffic Control Tower, Vancouver
National Drowning Prevention Week Themes
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Fatal Drowning
Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death. Awareness and safety measures can reduce risks. -
Non-fatal Drowning
Surviving a drowning incident can lead to serious health issues, including brain damage. Quick CPR and medical care are essential. -
Open Water Safety
Lakes, rivers, and oceans have unique hazards. Know the risks, check conditions, and never swim alone. -
Swim to Survive
Everyone should learn to roll into water, tread for one minute, and swim 50 meters to safety.
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Boating Safety
Always wear a lifejacket, carry safety gear, check the weather, and never boat under the influence. -
Supervising Children In, On, and Around Water
Drowning happens fast. Stay within arm’s reach of young children and stay focused. -
Alcohol & Substance Abuse
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of drowning.
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Wear a Lifejacket or PFD
Lifejackets save lives by keeping you afloat, visible, and insulated against cold water. -
Learn to Swim
Swimming is a vital life skill that helps prevent drowning and builds water confidence. -
Take a Lifesaving Course
CPR, first aid, and lifesaving training can make the difference in an emergency.
