Water Safety

Keeping our kids safe in and around the water.

Drowning is quick, silent and preventable. That’s why we’re here to educate families on how to keep kids safe - whether they’re at the pool, lake, beach, or in the bath.

A man holding a young girl in a swimming pool, both are partially submerged, with colorful floaties on the girl's arms, and the girl is smiling with her eyes closed.

Did you know…

…drowning is the leading cause of death among children between the ages of 1 and 4?

…drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children 19 and under?

…drowning can happen in less than 30 seconds and in as little as 1 inch of water?

Top Tips for Swimming Safety:

Prevent an event of a drowning by implementing the Five Layers of Protection:

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Barriers and Alarms: To help keep children from reaching the water without supervision, use four-sided fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates, along with pool safety covers and alarm systems.

Supervision: always stay alert and provide close, constant, and capable adult supervision - whether from a designated water watcher or a lifeguard - whenever children are in or near the water.

Water Competency: every child should learn and practice essential water safety skills to protect themselves and reduce the risk of drowning or water-related injuries.

Life Jackets: Life jackets provide protection in unexpected situations, especially around open water. Make sure yours is properly tested and approved by the United States Coast Guard.

Emergency Preparation: Being prepared with CPR training (including rescue breaths) and basic water rescue skills can be lifesaving. Always keep a phone nearby and ready to call 911 in an emergency.

Want more information about the 5 layers of protection?

Life Jackets

Make sure your child and teen’s life jacket is the right size.

It should be snug, secure, and fitted so it doesn’t ride up over their ears (a sign it’s too big).

Watch the video to ensure your child’s life jacket fit well.

Learn more about ways to keep your child safe: