Child Water Safety and Drowning Prevention: Tips, Facts, FAQ

Water can be a source of fun and exploration for children, but it can also be one of the most dangerous playgrounds for parents. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1 to 4. However, following the below tips will help ensure that your children are staying safe in and around water.

Tips for Drowning Prevention

• Provide Supervision: A responsible adult should always be present to monitor children around water, even if the child is a strong swimmer.
• Teach your Children: Enroll your child in swimming classes and make sure they are equipped with the knowledge of pool safety.
• Be aware: Know where your child is at all times when in or around water and have them wear a life jacket or other Coast Guard-approved flotation device.
• Secure the Pool: Install layers of protection around any body of water, including a fence and secured door alarms to alert you if a child enters the area.

Quick Facts about Water Safety

• Children are most at risk:Children aged 1-4 have the highest drowning rates of any age group.
• Home pools are the most common: Most drowning deaths occur in home swimming pools.
• It only takes seconds: It only takes seconds for a child to drown in as little as 1 inch of water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I get my child acclimated to the water?

A: Start by introducing babies to the water with supervised activities such as splashing and games. When your child is a bit older, enroll him or her in swimming classes.

Q: What should I look for when buying a life jacket?

A: Look for a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket and make sure it fits snugly and is the appropriate size for your child.

Q: What should I do if my child is struggling in the water?

A: If a child is struggling or panicking, coach them to float on their back and practice staying calm by taking deep breaths. Do not leave children unattended when they are swimming.