Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy
Since 2016, Safe Water Sports has had a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy and the Hellenic Coast Guard. The partnership covers a range of joint initiatives, including the use of information technology to support the Coast Guard in managing licences and inspections for lifeguards, water-sports professionals and recreational water-sports businesses; the modernisation of legislation concerning public safety at sea; the implementation of educational and awareness activities in schools; public information campaigns on sea safety; and the operation of the Accident Observatory, among other actions.
Ministry of Health
Safe Water Sports collaborates with the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Organization (EODY) on a joint awareness campaign for drowning prevention, with particular emphasis on citizens over the age of 60 ahead of the summer season. The campaign includes public information messages distributed through IDIKA, posters and leaflets sent to hospitals and health centres, awareness sessions at Open Care Centres for the Elderly (KAPI), television and radio spots, and information activities on beaches.
Ministry of Sports
In 2020, Safe Water Sports signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Sports to promote prevention and strengthen safety in aquatic sports and recreational activities. The partnership includes the exchange of expertise on international practices and safety regulations for swimming facilities, swimming pools, the sea and water sports, as well as the exchange of data with the General Secretariat of Sports.
Safe Water Sports also participates in the “Live Sportively” initiative, through which distinguished aquatic sports athletes educate students about water safety. In addition, data are shared with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy through the Safe Water Sports Information System, enabling more effective checks on the qualifications of water-ski instructors.
Ministry of Tourism
In 2019, Safe Water Sports signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism, establishing a framework for joint action to promote water safety, responsible behaviour at sea and the sustainable development of marine tourism. The partnership focuses on making effective use of the information, services and tools available through the Safe Water Sports digital platform, while also supporting the development of educational and awareness initiatives for children, young people, visitors and tourism professionals. Through these activities, both organisations aim to ensure that people are better informed about safety rules, local beach conditions and the responsible use of water sports and recreational activities.
The cooperation also contributes to the protection of the marine environment and the promotion of a safer, more responsible tourism experience in Greece. By encouraging cooperation between public authorities, tourism stakeholders and civil society, the initiative supports safer access to beaches and aquatic activities, while raising awareness of the importance of preserving marine ecosystems. At the same time, it contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to Life Below Water, sustainable tourism and effective partnerships between the State and civil society.
Ministry of Citizen Protection
Since 2020, Safe Water Sports has collaborated with the Ministry of Citizen Protection and the Hellenic Police to strengthen safety in inland waters and reduce accidents connected with aquatic sports and recreational activities. The cooperation focuses on the systematic recording and analysis of incidents, the exchange of expertise on international safety practices and existing regulations, and the development of a more complete understanding of the risks associated with lakes, rivers, swimming pools and other inland aquatic environments.
Through joint awareness, education and prevention initiatives, the partnership aims to provide citizens with reliable information, encourage responsible behaviour and promote the consistent application of essential safety measures. The data and knowledge gathered also support the development of more targeted prevention policies and coordinated actions, helping public authorities and relevant organisations improve safety standards and better protect people taking part in aquatic activities.
Greek National Tourism Organisation
Since 2021, Safe Water Sports has collaborated with the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) through a Memorandum of Cooperation aimed at informing visitors and promoting safer, more responsible marine tourism. The partnership makes use of the Safe Water Sports app, website and educational material through the GNTO’s digital channels, helping travellers access reliable information about beaches, water sports, safety rules, lifeguard coverage and available facilities. By providing clear and accessible guidance, the cooperation enables visitors to make better-informed decisions before taking part in swimming or recreational water activities.
The partnership also includes joint awareness initiatives, promotional campaigns and participation in tourism events and international exhibitions in Greece and abroad. Through these actions, Safe Water Sports and the GNTO work together to highlight Greece as a safe and responsible marine tourism destination, while encouraging visitors to respect safety regulations and the marine environment. The collaboration also supports cooperation with tourism professionals, international organisations and other relevant stakeholders, contributing to a safer and higher-quality experience for everyone who enjoys Greece’s beaches and aquatic activities.
Cooperation with the National Public Health Organization
Safe Water Sports and the National Public Health Organization (EODY) have agreed on a series of joint initiatives to strengthen safety in the aquatic environment and reduce drownings and fatal accidents. Their partnership lays the foundation for meaningful improvements in sea and water safety through targeted actions, including beach inspections and safety signage, stricter rules for water sports businesses, public information on the safety features and characteristics of Greek beaches, epidemiological monitoring of accidents related to aquatic activities, and an awareness campaign focused on sea safety for older adults. In addition, every summer, the two organisations hold information sessions at Open Care Centres for the Elderly (KAPI) and provide safety education for children at summer camps and beaches.
Union of Lifeguard Schools of Greece
Safe Water Sports collaborates with ESNE (the Hellenic Lifeguard Schools Association) to improve lifeguard training, strengthen the quality of lifeguard services and promote joint legislative initiatives aimed at enhancing safety on beaches and in swimming pools. The partnership supports the exchange of expertise and best practices, while also contributing to the development of more effective procedures for preventing accidents, responding to emergencies and protecting swimmers. Through coordinated action, both organisations work to improve professional standards and ensure that lifeguards are properly prepared to respond quickly and effectively when assistance is required.
A key part of this cooperation is the use of the innovative Lifeguard Rescue mobile app, developed by Safe Water Sports. The application records rescues, first-aid incidents and other lifeguard interventions in real time on beaches across Greece.
The information collected provides valuable insight into the frequency, location and nature of incidents, supporting the evaluation of existing lifeguard services and the identification of areas with greater safety needs. These data contribute to more effective planning, improved allocation of lifeguard resources and the continuous strengthening of nationwide lifeguard coverage.
Central Union of Greek Municipalities
Safe Water Sports collaborates with the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE) and the Hellenic Lifeguard Schools Association through a Memorandum of Cooperation aimed at reducing drownings and marine accidents and improving safety on beaches across the country. The partnership brings together the expertise of Safe Water Sports, local authorities and professional lifeguard training organisations to support municipalities in organising effective and reliable lifeguard services. It also promotes the exchange of knowledge, good practices and practical solutions that can help local authorities respond more efficiently to the safety needs of swimmers and beach visitors.
As part of this cooperation, a model study has been developed to estimate the cost of lifeguard coverage throughout Greece, together with standard contracts and tender documents that municipalities can use when procuring lifeguard services. These tools are designed to make procedures more consistent, transparent and effective, while supporting the appropriate allocation of resources and personnel. The organisations also work together on legislative proposals and policy initiatives to strengthen the existing water-safety framework, improve lifeguard coverage and contribute to the prevention of drownings and accidents in the aquatic environment.
