Drowning Prevention Week: Why Water Safety Matters More Than Ever

Drowning is preventable. Nobody should drown.

That’s the message at the heart of Drowning Prevention Week, and it’s one we’re proud to support at Horizon.

As we head into summer, more people are spending time in and around water. Whether it’s pools, beaches, lakes or rivers, knowing how to stay safe isn’t optional, it’s essential.

The reality behind the message

The statistics are clear, and they highlight why awareness matters:

• • 88% of child drownings happen without adult supervision

• • 71% occur between May and August, when water activity increases

• • 84% of open water child drownings happen inland, in places like rivers and lakes

• • On average, 723 people drown in England each year

These aren’t just numbers. They’re a reminder that education, confidence, and awareness can save lives

The Water Safety Code

At the centre of Drowning Prevention Week is a simple but powerful message:

Stop and think
Stay together
Call 999
Float

These four steps can make all the difference in an emergency.

But knowing what to do is only part of the picture.

Building confidence in the water

At Horizon, we believe water safety starts long before someone finds themselves in danger.

It starts with confidence, skills, and familiarity in the water.

Through our swim lessons, we support people of all ages to:

• Learn essential swimming skills
• Build confidence in and around water
• Understand how to stay safe in different environments
• Develop habits that last a lifetime

For many, learning to swim isn’t just about technique. It’s about removing fear, building trust, and creating a positive relationship with water.

Make this the moment to start

To support Drowning Prevention Week and help more people access these vital skills, we’re offering:

50% off swim lessons this June

Use code: SAVE50

Whether you’re starting from scratch, building confidence, or supporting your child’s development, now is the time to begin.

A shared responsibility

Drowning prevention isn’t just about individuals. It’s about all of us.

Parents, carers, leisure centres, schools, and communities all play a role in creating safer environments around water.

This week is a reminder to:

• Learn the Water Safety Code
• Talk about water safety with your family
• Build confidence through swimming
• Share knowledge with others

Because staying safe in and around water starts with awareness.

Drowning is preventable. Nobody should drown.