Drowning can happen quickly and silently, and it’s one of the leading causes of accidental death in young children-especially those ages 1–4. As parents and caregivers, being proactive about water safety can make all the difference.

Whether you’re headed to a pool, lake, beach, or simply supervising bath time at home, these practical, life-saving tips will help you protect your child.

🏊‍♂️ 1. Supervise With Intentional Focus

Always watch children when they are in or near water-and put away distractions like phones, books, or chores.
For young children and beginner swimmers, stay within arm’s reach at all times.

🌊 2. Teach Swimming & Water Skills

Formal swimming lessons significantly reduce the risk of drowning and build confidence in and around water. Even after lessons, constant supervision is key-swimming skills are one layer of protection, not a guarantee of safety.

🧯 3. Use Multiple Layers of Protection

Drowning prevention works best when you combine safety layers rather than relying on one alone:
✔ Designated “Water Watcher” with sole responsibility to watch kids
✔ Barriers such as fences and locked gates around pools
✔ Life jackets for natural water and weak swimmers
✔ Pool alarms and safety covers

🔒 4. Secure Pools and Water Areas

Install four-sided fencing with self-closing and self-latching gates at home pools-this has been shown to dramatically reduce drowning incidents. Secure any bodies of water around your property and keep toys, floats, and chairs away from fences so children aren’t tempted to climb.

🛁 5. Be Safe Inside the Home Too

Children can drown in even an inch of water-think bathtubs, buckets, toilets, spas, and wading pools.
Always drain tubs immediately after use, and never leave a child alone in the bathroom.

📘 6. Learn CPR and Emergency Response

In addition to prevention, parents and caregivers should learn CPR so you can act confidently in an emergency-minutes matter when a child is submerged.