A student tragically drowned on March 16, 2025, during a recreational outing with classmates to Thủy Tiên waterfall located in Krông Năng district, Đắk Lắk, Vietnam. The 15-year-old, identified as N.V.B.N., was visiting the site with six peers from Trần Hưng Đạo Middle School when the incident unfolded.
On the afternoon of the event, around 3:30 PM, N.V.B.N. decided to swim at the popular waterfall. Unfortunately, he was soon swept away by strong currents and called for help. His friends, realizing the danger he was in, jumped in to help but were unable to reach him. Following their futile attempts, the other students alerted nearby adults for assistance.
Authorities, upon receiving the emergency call, dispatched the Police Department of Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue to the scene. Given the challenging terrain of the waterfall and the depth of the water, search efforts were complicated. Searches continued until around 6:15 PM, when N.V.B.N.'s body was recovered and later handed over to his family for burial on March 17.
This heart-wrenching incident has cast light on water safety, especially for youth engaging with natural water bodies during Vietnam's dry season, which can often be hazardous. Local officials have noted the necessity of enhancing safety measures. A spokesperson advised, "The local authorities need to reinforce safety measures and awareness to prevent drowning incidents," urging community involvement and education.
This is not the first tragedy to strike the region involving young swimmers. Just weeks earlier, on February 27, 2025, two other students drowned at nearby lake borders between Krông Năng and Krông Búk districts. They too had gone swimming at the lake, where they ventured too far and succumbed to similar watery perils.
With the current season characterized by dry, hot weather, parents and schools are urged to increase awareness about the dangers of swimming, especially at unmonitored sites. There are calls for training students on swimming safety, creating barriers and warning signs around hazardous areas, and the establishment of educational programs on drowning prevention.
While the local government and educational institutions have taken measures to mitigate these risks, the community's response will be pivotal in fostering safer environments for children. Parents are encouraged to supervise youngsters closely when they are around water and to educate them on the risks involved.
This tragic story serves as a pressing reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparation. Drowning can happen quickly, and even strong swimmers can find themselves struggling against nature's force. By coming together as a community to develop and enforce safety protocols, it's hoped such tragedies can be avoided in the future, preserving the lives of the youth and ensuring safer environments for recreational activities.
With so much at stake, learning from the past, such as the February incidents, should fuel the urgency to implement changes. N.V.B.N.'s legacy can drive local efforts to prevent future drownings and protect students enjoying the clear, but potentially dangerous waters of Vietnam's natural landscapes.