We need to become vigilant in arresting the alarming rate of drowning cases involving our children - Tabuya

Now is the time we, especially parents, guardians and all those who have children under their custody and care, need to become vigilant in arresting the alarming rate of drowning cases involving our children.

This has been highlighted by the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Lynda Tabuya who says going through the media reports on the number of drowning cases, it saddens her to note that recent statistics have shown that in 2022 alone, Fiji recorded an increase of 43% in drowning cases when compared to 2021.

She says sadly, beginning of this year, we have already started to see high rates of drowning cases.

She says the premature loss of lives, especially our children who are most susceptible to vulnerability, is a tragedy and we cannot afford to let our guard down with our children for even a minute.

Tabuya is urging everyone to take all the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their families especially as we are in the cyclone season and torrential rain and flooding is expected.

She says be vigilant and take extra precaution particularly about children’s whereabouts, avoid letting them outdoors during rainy or stormy weather unsupervised, keep a close eye on children and toddlers when they are out for a swim at a public pool or at a picnic spot.

The Minister says parents have the duty to protect their children and make decisions concerning the welfare and well-being of their children.

She adds children deserve to live life to their fullest potential and if you see children unsupervised, please call the child helpline 1325.