Ho Chi Minh City launches major swimming and drowning prevention program

Ho Chi Minh City launched a comprehensive swimming and drowning prevention program for 2026, drawing over 1,000 participants to its kickoff event. The initiative focuses on promoting swimming proficiency and equipping individuals, particularly children and adolescents, with essential water safety knowledge.

The program aligns with national efforts, including the Month of Action for Children and the "All People Exercise Following President Ho Chi Minh's Example" campaign. It also supports the 2021-2030 program to ensure safe swimming and prevent child drowning, alongside efforts to enhance drowning prevention education for students citywide.

Activities included practical demonstrations on drowning prevention techniques, proper life jacket use, safe indirect rescue methods, and basic first aid. A key message emphasized that children should not directly rescue others in dangerous situations. Instead, they are instructed on self-protection, seeking help, and using indirect rescue tools like poles, ropes, or floating objects under expert guidance.

Swimming skills will be assessed and certified through the upcoming Ho Chi Minh City Children's Swimming Competition in June. This integrated approach aims to build a safer environment by fostering swimming competency and raising awareness about drowning risks.