Rescue Team 116 shifts focus to drowning prevention

Nham Quang Van, captain of Rescue Team 116, has announced a strategic shift in focus from reactive rescue operations to proactive drowning prevention. This initiative aims to reduce the number of emergency calls by equipping citizens, particularly children, with essential water safety and survival skills.

Drawing from experiences with tragic incidents in provinces such as Phu Tho, Lam Dong, and Phu Yen, the team identified that many victims lack basic swimming abilities or the necessary skills to handle water-based emergencies. Van noted that even swimmers can face life-threatening situations when attempting to rescue others without proper technique.

For 2026, Rescue Team 116 has identified two primary objectives: expanding their rescue network and intensifying drowning prevention programs within schools. These educational efforts will focus on teaching swimming and situational handling to prevent accidents before they occur.