[Activity Report] Toward Drowning Prevention in the Asia-Pacific: Completion of the Micronesia Water Safety Project
The Japan Lifesaving Association (JLA), supported by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, successfully conducted a water safety education project in the Federated States of Micronesia, instructing around 220 people.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: March 31, 2026 at 19:24
- 🔍 Collected: April 1, 2026 at 13:39 (18h 15m after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 22, 2026 at 01:12 (491h 33m after Collected)
The Japan Lifesaving Association (JLA) established the special committee "Asia-Pacific Water Safety Project Committee" as the embodiment of "promoting cooperation with neighboring countries as a member of the Asia-Pacific," which is set forth in the "JLA Grand Design 2061" and "Action Plan 2031." This project, supported by a grant from the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, whose main target is activities within Japan, was undertaken as a pilot to carry out a water safety enterprise in the Federated States of Micronesia.
We are pleased to report that the dispatch to Pohnpei State was realized, and great results were achieved within a tight schedule.
## Background: The severe reality of Micronesia's drowning death rate, which is 15.2 per 100,000 people, among the highest levels globally
According to a 2024 WHO report, the number of drowning deaths in the Federated States of Micronesia is extremely severe at 15.2 per 100,000 people (2nd in the world). In the Western Pacific region, drowning is the leading cause of death for ages 5-14, with accidents occurring not only in oceans and rivers but also in "water tanks" that store water for daily life. To break through this current situation, the JLA delivered safety education tailored to local lifestyles.
## Main Activities: Instruction for approximately 220 people across 5 educational institutions
In the limited time of a 4-day stay, we visited 3 elementary schools, a university, and a swimming club, conducting a total of 5 workshops.
Primary Education (3 Elementary Schools):
We instructed about 180 children on the role of lifesavers, "floating," "dry rescues (Talk/Reach/Throw)" using tools, and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). The globally common "red and yellow" uniforms were recognized by the children as well, and they participated in the classes with a highly proactive attitude.
Higher Education (College of Micronesia-FSM):
We held discussions with about 30 students majoring in marine biology and sociology. We explained the importance of "not jumping in even if you see someone drowning," and conveyed the importance of carrying a flotation device if one must jump in.
We are pleased to report that the dispatch to Pohnpei State was realized, and great results were achieved within a tight schedule.
## Background: The severe reality of Micronesia's drowning death rate, which is 15.2 per 100,000 people, among the highest levels globally
According to a 2024 WHO report, the number of drowning deaths in the Federated States of Micronesia is extremely severe at 15.2 per 100,000 people (2nd in the world). In the Western Pacific region, drowning is the leading cause of death for ages 5-14, with accidents occurring not only in oceans and rivers but also in "water tanks" that store water for daily life. To break through this current situation, the JLA delivered safety education tailored to local lifestyles.
## Main Activities: Instruction for approximately 220 people across 5 educational institutions
In the limited time of a 4-day stay, we visited 3 elementary schools, a university, and a swimming club, conducting a total of 5 workshops.
Primary Education (3 Elementary Schools):
We instructed about 180 children on the role of lifesavers, "floating," "dry rescues (Talk/Reach/Throw)" using tools, and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). The globally common "red and yellow" uniforms were recognized by the children as well, and they participated in the classes with a highly proactive attitude.
Higher Education (College of Micronesia-FSM):
We held discussions with about 30 students majoring in marine biology and sociology. We explained the importance of "not jumping in even if you see someone drowning," and conveyed the importance of carrying a flotation device if one must jump in.