Water is part of who we are in Wales. From mountain lakes and winding rivers to our spectacular coastline, we live our lives alongside it. But with all its beauty comes real risk. Wales is updating its national plan to reduce drowning and improve water safety, and your voice can shape it
What is the strategy?
The strategy is a national framework led by Water Safety Wales. Its purpose is to make it safer for everyone to enjoy the water whether paddling, swimming, fishing, walking the dog or exploring the coast. The draft sets out clear aims including improving water incident data, strengthening education, building local water safety plans, ensuring consistent public awareness, promoting safe participation, contributing to the reduction of water‑related suicide and keeping the voices of families affected by drowning central to the work.
Why now?
Recent reviews show that Wales still faces significant challenges. There were 54 water‑related fatalities in 2024, including 18 accidental deaths, and the mid‑strategy review highlighted an increase compared with the earlier baseline. This makes the updated strategy especially important for guiding the next phase of action.
What does it mean for communities?
Education that lasts: ensuring every child and young person in Wales receives meaningful water safety learning alongside swimming skills.
Stronger local action: councils and partners working with communities on practical measures such as risk assessments, signage and rescue equipment at known hotspots.
Clear, timely advice: ensuring people see simple, consistent messages before high‑risk seasons and at locations where incidents are more likely.
Data‑informed decisions: using incident data to target resources where they make the biggest difference.
How you can help
- Read the draft strategy overview.
- Share what you see on your local waters, whether that’s a dangerous section of river, a spot where young people gather in summer, areas needing bilingual signage or activities that could be made safer.
- Submit your response by 11 March 2026. You do not need any specialist knowledge; lived experience is exactly what the consultation is asking for
What to consider in your response
- Consider whether the priorities feel right for your area.
- Think about where education or signage could be improved, including bilingual materials.
- Reflect on how we can support young people to stay safer through the summer months.
- Share ideas for encouraging safe participation in outdoor activities such as paddlesport.
Add your voice
The consultation is open until 11 March 2026. You can read the details and respond here: Consultation on the Wales Drowning Prevention Strategy - National Water Safety Forum
Together we can help ensure Wales remains a place where we enjoy the water safely, with respect and confidence.
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