It takes only seconds for a child to drown. Drowning is a leading cause of death for children under the age of five. Most incidents occur in residential swimming pools, often in the child’s own backyard. However, drowning hazards extend beyond pools to bathtubs, buckets, toilets, dog water bowls, ponds, and canals.

Young children are especially vulnerable. They are top-heavy and lack the upper body strength to lift themselves out of water. Even when a child survives a drowning incident, the result can be permanent brain damage due to oxygen deprivation.

Drowning and near-drowning incidents are preventable. Constant supervision and layered safety measures save lives.

Supervision Is the First Line of Defense

• Know where your children are at all times.

• Never allow children near water without active adult supervision—no exceptions.

• If you leave the pool area, take the children with you.

• Assign a “designated child watcher” whose sole responsibility is supervising children in or near water. Avoid distractions such as phones, conversations, or alcohol.

Install and Maintain Proper Barriers

• Use an approved four-sided barrier to completely separate the pool from the house and yard.

• Ensure gates are self-closing and self-latching.

• Keep furniture, toys, ladders, and large objects away from pool fences to prevent climbing.

• Store pool toys outside the pool area when not in use.

Layered protection significantly reduces risk.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Keep lifesaving equipment near the pool, such as a reaching pole, rescue hook, or flotation device.

• Post the 9-1-1 number near the phone or pool area.

• Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills. Immediate action can make the difference between life and death.

Practice Safe Swimming Habits

• Enroll children in age-appropriate swim lessons.

• Never swim alone.

• Do not swim under the influence of alcohol or medications.

• Exit the pool immediately if thunder or lightning is present.

• Never dive into shallow or unfamiliar water.

Additional Water Safety Reminders

• Empty buckets and small containers immediately after use.

• Close toilet lids and use toilet seat locks when small children are present.

• Supervise bath time at all times—never leave a child unattended, even briefly.

Community Commitment to Water Safety

Pool safety requires vigilance, preparation, and shared responsibility. By implementing barriers, maintaining constant supervision, and being prepared for emergencies, families can prevent needless tragedies.

For additional water safety information or to schedule a community safety presentation, contact your local fire department’s Community Risk Reduction Division.