To combat the alarming rates of drowning cases in Bihar, the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA) has taken an innovative approach by organizing a comprehensive training program for volunteers to empower communities and save lives by providing vital swimming skills and water safety education. Recognizing the need for proactive measures, BSDMA Conducted a Training of Trainers (ToT) session, equipping 31 volunteers from Global Program with the necessary skills to organize swimming training programs in villages across the state. The volunteers were identified through a systematic process based on the lists shared by the Global Program partners with BSDMA. The training built the capacity of the task force committees to respond to drowning- one of the prevalent local disasters in Bihar. As aimed at the Global program, this training motivates the disaster management committee members to engage the trained volunteers in recuse operations and to train other local volunteers in the program villages which resulted in building community resilience.

The Training of Trainers (ToT) session played a pivotal role in building the capacity of volunteers to organize swimming training programs. The community volunteers (task Force) from the Global Program underwent an intensive training program designed to enhance their teaching abilities, water safety knowledge, and swimming techniques. The ToT session incorporated both theoretical and practical aspects to ensure a well-rounded learning experience. The theoretical component covered topics such as drowning prevention, risk assessment, water rescue techniques, and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).

Volunteers were educated about the different types of water bodies prevalent in Bihar, including rivers, ponds, and canals, and the specific risks associated with each. They were trained to identify potential hazards and to educate communities on preventive measures to avoid drowning incidents. The practical training segment focused on refining swimming skills and teaching methodologies.

Volunteers were taught various swimming strokes, techniques, and drills. They were also trained in how to assess the swimming abilities of individuals, develop personalized training plans, and ensure the safety of participants during training sessions. Emphasis was placed on creating a positive and inclusive learning environment that encourages participants of all ages and backgrounds to overcome their fear of water and learn to swim confidently.

The program is following a cascading approach to build resilience. These trained volunteers armed with newly acquired knowledge and skills are now actively involved in finding candidates to organize swimming Programmes in Villages in Batches in Coordination with Circle Officer in East Champaran, Nawada & Supaul. Best performer Volunteers have been awarded in each batch.

In villages, training programs will conduct in a phased manner, comprising both theoretical and practical sessions. Participants will receive comprehensive water safety education, including understanding water currents, recognizing dangerous swimming conditions, and the importance of using life jackets. Practical swimming lessons.

The implementation of the Safe Swimming Program has the potential to significantly reduce drowning cases in Bihar. By training volunteers as trainers, BSDMA has created a sustainable model that can be replicated and expanded to cover more villages in the state. The involvement of local community members increases the program’s effectiveness, as they possess a deep understanding of the region’s challenges and can effectively communicate safety measures to their peers.

This initiative is a remarkable example of empowering individuals and communities to take proactive steps in ensuring their safety. With continued support and expansion, the Safe Swimming Program holds the potential to save countless lives. Respective DRR committees are providing support in identifying Hot spots to prevent drowning incidents. The target is to identify all spots before monsoon and mark them in red (alarming area).

The continuous efforts and strong relations at the district and state levels have facilitated the successful implementation of this program. By empowering individuals and communities, this initiative not only prevents drowning incidents but also promotes a sense of ownership and active participation among citizens. With ongoing support and expansion, the Safe Swimming Program has the potential to safeguard countless lives in Bihar.