Before Summer Begins! That Complacency Could Lead to an Accident — Experts Share the Basics of Drowning Prevention

In the summer of FY2025 (July and August), there were 446 water-related accidents involving 535 people (including 241 fatalities and missing persons). Most drowning incidents occurred at sea (53.8%) and rivers (35.0%), accounting for 88.8% of all cases. Kanagawa Prefecture ranked third worst nationwide with 26 reported drowning incidents. (Source: National Police Agency, Bureau of Safety, Division of Safety Planning, "Overview of Drowning Incidents in Reiwa 7," June 18, R8)

Many of these accidents can be prevented with proper prior knowledge and a little caution. The Kanagawa Prefectural Branch of the Japanese Red Cross Society is actively promoting public awareness to prevent water-related accidents. This article explains essential knowledge for avoiding accidents and what to do in case of an emergency.

Seven Golden Rules for Water Play

1 Don't make unrealistic plans.

・It's dangerous to go near water when fatigued or sleep-deprived.

・Never go near water alone.

2 Always check the weather.

・Check weather conditions, wind direction and speed, temperature, and tides via weather forecasts or online sources.

3 Avoid areas with unstable footing.

・Surfaces may be slippery or contain sharp rocks, posing injury risks.

→ Play only in areas where you can clearly see the ground beneath your feet.

4 Stay away from prohibited or dangerous areas.

・Never approach rocky areas or breakwaters, especially during high waves.

5 If a river suddenly rises, immediately move away from the water.

・Be alert if the river water suddenly becomes murky or large tree branches start floating downstream.

6 Never chase after swept-away objects.

・Do not pursue anything that has floated toward you or drifted away from you.

→ Always prioritize personal safety—for example, with sandals or balls.

7 Wear a life jacket.

・Wearing a life jacket reduces the risk of accidents.

→ Wear it even in shallow water—never let your guard down.

Next, we'll explain in detail the life jacket, introduced as rule number seven.

Life Jackets (Personal Flotation Devices)

Wearing a life jacket helps you:

○ Float your body on the water

○ Maintain body temperature

○ Reduce impact from collisions

・Always wear one when playing in water, fishing, or boarding a vessel.

Key points when wearing a life jacket:

★ Choose a bright color and the correct size for your body

+ A whistle attachment is even better.

★ Securely fasten belts, straps, and zippers

・Make sure to properly fasten the crotch strap as well.

★ Always conduct a safety check before use

・Inspect for damage, fraying, foreign objects inside, and ensure it inflates properly.

Next, we'll explain what to do if you fall into the water.

What to Do If You Fall into the Water

The most important thing is to float on the water.

→ This is called "floating posture" (uki-mi).

~How to Float~

1 Stay calm and relax your body.

→ If you panic and arch your back, your body will continue to sink.

2 Extend both arms and both legs.

Key points for floating:

1 Keep your face and gaze directed straight upward.

2 Take deep breaths and exhale slowly.

3 Do not remove clothing or shoes.

→ Clothes help maintain body temperature and protect your body.

4 Grab onto any floating objects nearby.

Examples: plastic bottles, balls, coolers, etc.

The Kanagawa Prefectural Branch of the Japanese Red Cross Society offers Water Safety Training sessions to help people enjoy water safely and protect lives from accidents. We also provide knowledge and technical support for media professionals.

【Please Contact Us】

● We welcome media coverage of training sessions. (Please inquire separately for scheduling.)

● We can provide expert commentary from Water Safety instructors on preventing water accidents.

● We can arrange on-site supervision and guidance for media professionals who wish to experience the training.

~Including clothed swimming, life jacket use, and advice for falling into water~

★ Available Dates for Clothed Swimming Instruction Coverage

Date/Time: July 14 (Tue) from 8:50 a.m. Hirato Elementary School (Totsuka Ward)

July 15 (Wed) from 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Byobugaura Elementary School (Isogo Ward)

July 16 (Thu) from 8:45 a.m. and 10:50 a.m. Makado Elementary School (Naka Ward)

※ Please contact us by noon the day before if you wish to attend.

【Contact / Media Inquiry】

Kanagawa Prefectural Branch of the Japanese Red Cross Society, General Affairs and Planning Department, Planning and Public Relations Section

TEL: 045-681-2124 Email: kanagawa-kikaku@kanagawa.jrc.or.jp

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