Lifesaving

Water is an incredible force of nature — serene, powerful, and sometimes, unforgiving. It sustains life, offers recreation, and inspires awe. Yet, it also carries an inherent danger: drowning. Each year, drowning claims the lives of hundreds of thousands globally, and what’s most startling is that many of these incidents are entirely preventable.

The phrase “Anyone can drown, and no one should” serves as a sobering reminder of water’s dual nature. It underscores the universal vulnerability we all face and emphasizes the critical importance of water safety awareness and preventive measures.

Drowning: A Hidden Epidemic

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths worldwide. It does not discriminate by age, fitness, or experience. From toddlers exploring their surroundings to seasoned swimmers overestimating their abilities, the risk is universal. Even in shallow water or unexpected places like bathtubs or buckets, drowning can occur in mere seconds.

The Silent Killer

One of the most alarming aspects of drowning is how quietly it happens. Unlike the dramatic depictions in movies, drowning is often silent and fast. Victims rarely scream or thrash about; instead, they struggle to keep their heads above water. This quietness makes it harder for bystanders to recognize and respond in time.

Prevention is Key

Drowning deaths are not inevitable. With the right knowledge and precautions, we can drastically reduce these tragedies.

1.⁠ ⁠Learn to Swim

Swimming is a life-saving skill that everyone should acquire. Teaching children to swim early and ensuring adults have at least basic swimming skills can save lives.

2.⁠ ⁠Supervision is Essential

Children and inexperienced swimmers should always be supervised around water. Even a few moments of distraction can lead to tragedy.

3.⁠ ⁠Respect the Water

Rivers, lakes, and oceans are unpredictable. Strong currents, waves, and hidden obstacles can challenge even the strongest swimmers. Understanding the risks and staying vigilant is crucial.

4.⁠ ⁠Life Jackets Save Lives

For activities like boating, kayaking, or even swimming in deep or rough waters, wearing a life jacket can mean the difference between life and death.

5.⁠ ⁠Learn CPR and Rescue Skills

In emergencies, immediate action can save lives. Knowing how to perform CPR or safely rescue someone from water can make a critical difference.

Building a Culture of Safety

Beyond individual actions, creating a culture of water safety is essential. Schools, communities, and governments must collaborate to raise awareness and implement safety measures. This includes installing barriers around pools, improving signage at water bodies, and ensuring lifeguards are present in public swimming areas.

A Collective Responsibility

Drowning prevention is a shared responsibility. It begins with education and extends to accountability. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a community leader, or just someone enjoying a day at the beach, your actions can save a life.

Conclusion

Water is not to be feared but respected. By understanding its risks and adopting preventive measures, we can ensure that no one has to face the tragedy of drowning. Remember, anyone can drown, but with collective effort, no one should.

Let’s turn awareness into action and make water safety a priority for everyone. After all, every life is worth saving.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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As the calendar flips to 2025, we’re presented with a golden opportunity to reflect, reset, and refocus. This year, why not make a resolution that’s not only transformative for you but also impactful for those around you? Commit to lifesaving actions and empower yourself with skills that could one day save a life!

Why Lifesaving Skills Matter

Emergencies don’t knock before arriving—they can occur anywhere, anytime. Being equipped with lifesaving skills like CPR, basic first aid, and water rescue techniques ensures you can respond effectively when the unexpected happens. These skills aren’t just for medical professionals; they’re for everyone.

Here’s Why You Should Learn Them:

1. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Whether it’s a cardiac arrest, a severe injury, or someone struggling in water, quick action can be the difference between life and death. Knowing how to respond boosts your confidence and reduces panic in critical moments.

2. Protect Your Loved Ones

Emergencies often involve people we care about. Learning lifesaving skills is a way to safeguard the well-being of your family and friends.

3. Contribute to Safer Communities

Imagine a world where every individual knows how to help in a crisis. By learning and teaching others these skills, you’re playing a direct role in building safer, more resilient communities.

4. Inspire Purpose in Others

Your actions can inspire others to step up. A single person’s commitment can create a ripple effect, encouraging friends, family, and neighbors to learn and act.

What Can You Learn in 2025?

1.⁠ ⁠CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

CPR is a critical skill that can restore blood flow and breathing in a person experiencing cardiac arrest. It’s simple to learn yet incredibly effective.

2.⁠ ⁠First Aid

From treating minor cuts to responding to major injuries, first aid knowledge can minimize harm and prevent complications until professional help arrives.

3.⁠ ⁠Water Rescue Techniques

With drowning being a major cause of accidental deaths in India, knowing how to safely rescue someone in water is a vital skill. Organizations like RLSS (India) [Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India)] offer excellent training programs.

How to Get Started

• Join a Training Program: Look for certified programs in your area or enroll online. Many organizations, including RLSS India, provide courses tailored to all age groups.

• Encourage Your Circle: Invite friends, family, and coworkers to learn with you. Group sessions are not only fun but also build a shared sense of purpose.

• Stay Updated: Regular practice and refreshers ensure you stay prepared.

Make 2025 a Year of Action

This year, let’s move beyond resolutions that fade by February. Commit to something lasting, meaningful, and lifesaving. Take the first step today and be a part of the movement toward a safer, stronger, and more resilient #SurakshitBharat.

Let’s inspire, act, and save lives—together.

Happy New Year!

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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The Indo-Sri Lanka Life Saving Sports Championship 2024, held from December 10th to 12th at Puri Beach, Odisha, was a remarkable event that showcased the skills and camaraderie of lifesaving athletes from both nations. 

Organized by the Sri Lanka Life Saving (SLLS) and the Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India), the championship featured a series of competitive events designed to test participants’ endurance, agility, and lifesaving techniques. The picturesque Puri Beach provided an ideal backdrop for the competitions, enhancing the experience for both athletes and spectators. 

In the lead-up to the event, teams from both countries engaged in rigorous training sessions. The SLLS shared glimpses of their preparations, expressing enthusiasm about meeting their Indian counterparts and participating in the competition.

The championship not only highlighted the athletic prowess of the participants but also emphasized the importance of lifesaving skills and water safety awareness. Events ranged from simulated rescue operations to endurance races, each designed to mirror real-life scenarios that lifesavers might encounter.

Beyond the competitions, the event fostered a spirit of unity and mutual respect between India and Sri Lanka. Athletes and officials had opportunities to share knowledge, techniques, and experiences, strengthening the bond between the two nations in the realm of lifesaving sports.

The championship concluded with a closing ceremony that celebrated the achievements of all participants. Medals and accolades were awarded, but the overarching sentiment was one of shared accomplishment and the collective promotion of lifesaving as a vital skill and sport.

The Indo-Sri Lanka Life Saving Sports Championship 2024 at Puri Beach stands as a testament to the dedication of both countries to lifesaving sports and their commitment to fostering international cooperation and sportsmanship.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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Water, a source of life and vitality, is all around us—flowing through rivers, filling lakes, and shaping our coastlines. It is as essential as it is dangerous. Each year, countless lives are lost to drowning, a tragedy that is often preventable with the right measures. As communities grow and water bodies become hubs of activity and leisure, it is more important than ever to ensure that everyone is equipped to stay safe. This is why we are making an earnest appeal for the establishment of a Water Safety Council, a unified body designed to tackle the pressing issue of water safety.

Why We Need a Water Safety Council

Water safety is a multifaceted challenge, involving a mix of public awareness, education, and infrastructure. While local authorities, governments, and organisations have made great strides in promoting safety, the efforts are often fragmented, leading to gaps in implementation. These gaps can cost lives.

• Water Safety Education: Empowering people, especially children, with the skills and knowledge to stay safe near water. This would include teaching swimming skills, water survival techniques, and understanding the risks associated with different water bodies.
• Policy Development: Ensuring that water safety is a priority at every level of governance. From enforcing life jacket laws to improving signage near hazardous water bodies, a council can push for comprehensive policies that save lives.
• Emergency Preparedness: Training and equipping communities with the resources to respond effectively in case of emergencies. This includes making sure that lifeguards, emergency responders, and first aid are readily available where needed.

The Role of Communities in Water Safety

Communities play a pivotal role in preventing drowning incidents. Whether it’s in a rural village with a local pond or a coastal city with busy beaches, people need to feel safe in and around water. However, awareness varies widely across different regions, leaving some communities vulnerable. The Water Safety Council would focus on tailoring education and resources to the needs of different regions, ensuring that no one is left behind.

We must also recognise that drowning disproportionately affects certain segments of society, including children, low-income families, and those living in remote areas. By promoting inclusivity and focusing on these vulnerable groups, the Water Safety Council can make a real impact in preventing tragedies before they occur.

Building Partnerships for a Safer Future

For the Water Safety Council to succeed, it requires collaboration across all sectors. Governments must allocate funding and resources, local authorities need to implement safety measures, and educational institutions should incorporate water safety into their curriculums. Additionally, community organisations, NGOs, and volunteers will play a vital role in grassroots advocacy and training.

The call for a Water Safety Council is not just an appeal to authorities but to every individual. Whether you live near a river, enjoy spending time at the beach, or simply have water in your backyard, water safety affects us all. This Council will ensure that we work together, each playing a role in creating a future where drowning is a rare, preventable occurrence.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

The Water Safety Council represents more than just policies and programmes. It symbolises hope—a future where fewer families mourn the loss of loved ones due to drowning. Every life saved through education, policy, and preparedness strengthens our communities and creates safer environments for everyone.

Together, we can make a difference. Let us join hands and work towards the establishment of the Water Safety Council, a crucial step in ensuring that every person has the tools and knowledge to stay safe in and around water. Whether you are a policymaker, community leader, educator, or concerned citizen, your voice matters in this mission.

💧 The Water Safety Council is the key to preventing drownings and saving lives. Let’s come together for safer waters and a safer world.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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The South Asia Drowning Prevention Workshop recently brought together a remarkable group of experts, leaders, and volunteers from around the world, all united by a common goal: to prevent drowning and enhance water safety. This global collaboration became a platform for impactful discussions, innovative solutions, and meaningful partnerships, all geared toward making the world’s waters safer.

A Remarkable Collaboration for Drowning Prevention

The event was a true testament to the power of teamwork. From meticulous behind-the-scenes preparations to fruitful dialogue among international participants, every element contributed to the success of this initiative. The collaboration highlighted the shared commitment to drowning prevention, creating opportunities for global experts to come together, share insights, and build on one another’s experiences. Together, we have made significant strides toward more effective practices in this crucial area of public safety.

Day 1 Highlights: Setting the Foundation for Change

The first day of the workshop was packed with insightful presentations and discussions, laying the groundwork for what was to come. Some of the key topics covered included:

1. Achievements and Challenges: Member organizations presented their success stories and the obstacles they face, providing a comprehensive overview of drowning prevention efforts across the region.
2. Local Leadership: Emphasizing the importance of local leadership in reducing drowning incidents, the discussions showcased how community-driven efforts are central to sustainable safety improvements.
3. Climate Change and Water Safety: With climate change increasing the frequency of floods and extreme weather events, participants explored its significant impact on water safety, particularly in vulnerable coastal and flood-prone areas.
4. RLSS CPR Project: A new initiative, focusing on hands-on CPR training, was launched to equip more communities with the skills necessary to save lives, particularly in regions where access to emergency services is limited.

These discussions helped to establish a solid foundation, setting the stage for deeper, more strategic conversations on Day 2.

Day 2 Highlights: Strengthening Global Cooperation

Day 2 brought a special moment when Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Immigration from Australia, joined the workshop. His discussions with key representatives from India opened new avenues for cooperation between Australia and South Asia, furthering the global effort to prevent drowning.

One of the standout moments was the donation of manikins by the minister on behalf of the Commonwealth and Laerdal. These manikins will significantly boost lifesaving training efforts across several countries, allowing more communities to be equipped with the skills needed to respond to water-related emergencies.

Key topics of the day included:

1. Survival Swimming Education: The group examined strategies to ensure that more children and adults are trained in survival swimming, a crucial skill that could save countless lives in water-rich regions.
2. Lifesaving Sport: Discussions revolved around the role of lifesaving sport in promoting water safety and how it can be used as a tool to engage communities.
3. Puri Mahasangha: In an inspiring moment, the workshop honored Puri Mahasangha, the oldest lifeguard community in India, celebrating their rich history and ongoing contribution to water safety in the country.

The discussions reinforced the importance of global cooperation and innovative strategies in tackling the challenge of drowning prevention.

Together for Safer Waters

The workshop was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when countries work together, pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise to make the world’s waters safer. From lifesaving sports to survival swimming education, the strategies discussed during the event provide a roadmap for building more resilient communities, capable of preventing drowning and protecting lives.

By fostering global partnerships, sharing best practices, and equipping communities with life-saving skills, this workshop has taken a crucial step toward making waters safer for everyone.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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Pune, a vibrant city known for its cultural heritage and burgeoning IT sector, faces a recurring and formidable challenge: floods. These natural disasters have become an almost annual event, causing significant disruption to daily life, property damage, and even loss of life. Understanding the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to Pune’s flood problem is crucial for residents, authorities, and policymakers.

Causes of Pune Floods

1.⁠ ⁠Heavy Rainfall: Pune experiences intense monsoon rains between June and September. While the monsoon is crucial for agriculture and water supply, excessive rainfall within short periods often overwhelms the city’s drainage systems.

2.⁠ ⁠Urbanization: Rapid and unplanned urbanization has led to the encroachment of natural water bodies and floodplains. Concrete jungles have replaced green spaces, reducing the ground’s capacity to absorb rainwater.

3.⁠ ⁠Inadequate Drainage Systems: The city’s drainage infrastructure has not kept pace with its growth. Clogged drains, poorly maintained stormwater systems, and insufficient sewage networks contribute to waterlogging and flooding.

4.⁠ ⁠River Encroachments: The Mula and Mutha rivers, which flow through Pune, have seen significant encroachments over the years. Illegal constructions and reduced river widths impede natural water flow, causing the rivers to overflow during heavy rains.

Impacts of Floods

1.⁠ ⁠Property Damage: Floods cause extensive damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. Waterlogged streets, submerged vehicles, and damaged buildings are common sights during flood events.

2.⁠ ⁠Loss of Life: Tragically, floods often result in fatalities. People are caught unprepared, and swift water currents can be deadly.

3.⁠ ⁠Health Hazards: Stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to outbreaks of diseases such as dengue and malaria. Contaminated water supplies can also cause gastrointestinal illnesses.

4.⁠ ⁠Economic Disruption: Floods disrupt daily life and economic activities. Businesses suffer losses due to damaged goods and interrupted operations. Additionally, the cost of repairing infrastructure and providing relief to affected residents places a significant financial burden on the city.

Measures to Mitigate Flooding

1.⁠ ⁠Improving Drainage Systems: Upgrading and regularly maintaining the city’s drainage infrastructure is essential. Ensuring that drains are clear of debris and capable of handling heavy rainfall can significantly reduce waterlogging.

2.⁠ ⁠Floodplain Management: Protecting and restoring natural floodplains can help manage excess water. Prohibiting construction in these areas and implementing green spaces that can absorb rainwater are crucial steps.

3.⁠ ⁠River Restoration: Removing encroachments along riverbanks and widening the river channels can improve water flow and reduce the risk of overflow. Additionally, creating buffer zones along rivers can help manage floodwaters.

4.⁠ ⁠Early Warning Systems: Implementing advanced weather forecasting and early warning systems can give residents and authorities crucial time to prepare and respond to impending floods.

5.⁠ ⁠Community Awareness and Preparedness: Educating residents about flood risks and emergency procedures can save lives and minimize property damage. Community involvement in disaster preparedness initiatives ensures a more resilient response to floods.

Pune’s flood problem is a complex issue requiring a multifaceted approach. While natural factors like heavy rainfall are beyond control, urban planning, infrastructure development, and community preparedness play crucial roles in mitigating the impacts. Collaborative efforts between government authorities, urban planners, and residents are essential to create a flood-resilient Pune. By prioritizing sustainable development and investing in robust infrastructure, the city can better weather the challenges posed by annual floods, ensuring safety and stability for its inhabitants.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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Drowning is a silent and swift danger, often occurring without warning. As a response to this ever-present risk, LifeSaving sports have emerged as a vital component in the fight against drowning. Here’s why they play such a crucial role:

1. Skill Development

LifeSaving sports equip participants with essential skills such as swimming, rescue techniques, and first aid. These skills are critical for responding effectively in emergency situations, potentially saving lives. The rigorous training ensures that participants are well-prepared to handle real-life water emergencies.

2. Awareness and Education

By engaging in LifeSaving sports, individuals become ambassadors for water safety. These sports raise awareness about the risks of drowning and promote comprehensive water safety education. Participants often engage in community outreach, spreading the message of safe practices around water bodies and thereby helping to inform and protect others.

3. Physical Fitness

A core component of LifeSaving sports is the promotion of physical fitness and swimming proficiency. Strong swimming skills are essential for preventing drowning and are crucial for performing effective rescues. The physical conditioning involved in these sports ensures that participants are always ready to act in emergencies.

4. Teamwork and Leadership

LifeSaving sports often require teamwork and leadership training. Participants learn to work cohesively, enhancing safety and emergency response capabilities. This collaborative spirit fosters a sense of community and responsibility, which is vital in life-threatening situations.

5. Enhanced Lifesaving Techniques

The competitive nature of LifeSaving sports drives participants to continually refine their lifesaving techniques. This constant improvement ensures that they are highly effective when faced with real-life situations, making every second count during a rescue.

6. Building Confidence

Training in LifeSaving sports significantly boosts an individual’s confidence in the water. This empowerment enables them to act decisively and effectively in emergencies, reducing hesitation and increasing the likelihood of a successful rescue.

7. Community Engagement

LifeSaving sports often involve community events and competitions. These activities foster a culture of safety and encourage community members to prioritize drowning prevention. By bringing people together around the cause of water safety, these events promote collective responsibility and vigilance.

8. Promotion of Lifeguard Programs

Many organizations involved in LifeSaving sports also support and promote lifeguard training programs. This ensures that more individuals are qualified to prevent drowning incidents, creating a network of trained lifesavers who can act in emergencies.

Overall, LifeSaving sports are more than just competitive activities; they are life-saving initiatives. They not only enhance individual capabilities but also contribute to a broader cultural shift towards water safety and drowning prevention. By fostering skills, awareness, fitness, teamwork, confidence, community engagement, and support for lifeguard programs, LifeSaving sports are a cornerstone in the global effort to prevent drowning and save lives.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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As July 25th approaches, we are reminded of the critical importance of water safety with World Drowning Prevention Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about drowning prevention and promoting actions that can save lives. We invite you to join us in spreading awareness and taking proactive steps to reduce drowning incidents in our communities.

The Gravity of the Issue

Drowning is a significant global public health issue, claiming over 236,000 lives each year. It’s a tragedy often preventable with the right knowledge, skills, and precautions. This year, the theme for World Drowning Prevention Day is “Every Life Saved is a Victory,” highlighting the importance of equipping individuals with the tools to prevent drowning and save lives.

How You Can Make a Difference

There are several impactful ways you can participate in World Drowning Prevention Day:

1.⁠ ⁠Spread Awareness: Share water safety tips, drowning prevention measures, and the importance of learning to swim with your friends, family, and community members. Your voice can make a difference.

2.⁠ ⁠Educate Yourself: Learn about drowning prevention strategies, CPR techniques, and water safety protocols. Knowledge is power, and being informed can help you respond effectively in an emergency.

3.⁠ ⁠Support Local Initiatives: Get involved in local drowning prevention programs, swimming lessons, and water safety campaigns. Your support can help reduce drowning incidents in your community.

4.⁠ ⁠Practice Vigilance: Always keep a close eye on children and inexperienced swimmers when near water. Whether at the pool, beach, or any body of water, never leave them unattended.

Creating a Safer Future

Together, we can make a significant impact in preventing drowning and saving lives. Let’s work towards a world where everyone can enjoy water activities safely. Join us in observing World Drowning Prevention Day and help create a safer future for all.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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Bone fractures are a common injury that can happen to anyone, regardless of age or activity level. Understanding how to manage a bone fracture is crucial for a successful recovery and to prevent any long-term complications. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of bone fractures, their symptoms, treatment options, and tips for a speedy recovery.

Types of Bone Fractures:

1. Closed Fracture: The bone breaks but does not penetrate the skin.

2. Open Fracture: Also known as a compound fracture, where the broken bone pierces through the skin.

3. Greenstick Fracture: Common in children, where the bone bends and cracks but does not completely break.

4. Comminuted Fracture: The bone shatters into multiple pieces.

5. Stress Fracture: A hairline crack in the bone caused by repetitive stress.

Symptoms of a Bone Fracture:

– Intense pain at the site of the injury

– Swelling and bruising

– Deformity or misalignment of the affected limb

– Inability to bear weight or use the injured limb

– Limited range of motion

Treatment Options:

1. Immobilization: Keeping the broken bone in place with a splint, cast, or brace to allow it to heal properly.

2. Reduction: Manipulating the broken bone back into its correct position, either manually or surgically.

3. Surgery: In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be required to realign the bone fragments and stabilize them with pins, plates, or screws.

4. Physical Therapy: Once the bone has started to heal, physical therapy can help regain strength, mobility, and function in the affected area.

Tips for Recovery:

1. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments.

2. Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone healing.

3. Avoid putting weight or pressure on the injured limb until cleared by your healthcare provider.

4. Stay active within the limits set by your healthcare provider to prevent muscle atrophy and stiffness.

5. Stay positive and patient – bone fractures take time to heal, and it’s essential to give your body the rest and care it needs.

Conclusion:

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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Bone fractures can be painful and disruptive, but with the right treatment and care, most people can recover fully and regain their mobility. If you suspect you have a bone fracture, seek medical attention promptly to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Remember to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and be patient with the healing process. Your bones will thank you for it in the long run!