Ibri – Two children drowned in Ibri on Monday. Announcing the accident, Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA), stated that despite immediate response of emergency rescue and ambulance teams, the children were found dead and could not be revived.

CDAA highlighted the critical need for adhering to safety guidelines for children when swimming. Factors contributing to drowning incidents include inadequate swimming skills, swimming in unauthorised or hazardous areas like agricultural ponds and dams, reckless rescue attempts, lack of supervision, and ignoring warning signs.

To prevent such tragedies, CDAA emphasised the importance of following safety protocols. These include swimming only in designated areas, securing wells with high barriers, ensuring swimming pools have fixed ladders and metal handles, providing life jackets or flotation devices, avoiding overcrowded pools, and maintaining vigilant adult supervision. It is essential to ensure that children are not left unsupervised when leaving the pool area.

According to the latest CDAA data, drowning incidents have decreased significantly, with 166 cases reported in 2023 compared to 324 in 2022 – down 48.7%. Despite this progress, it remains crucial to act swiftly in the event of a drowning.

To report a drowning, immediately call the emergency numbers 9999 or 24343666.