What Professionals say about Drowning Prevention for Busy Parents

Written by: Jen Brown (Emler Regional Vice President) and Kendra Walker (Vice President of Operations)

With 4th of July fun just around the corner, kids will be splashing more than ever. And you’ve probably seen scary headlines about drowning. But here is the good news: drowning IS preventable. By putting some simple water safety tips into practice, you can keep the fun high and the risk low. 

5 Simple Tips to Keep Kids Safe Around Water

1. Prioritize Swim Lessons
   1. Swim lessons aren’t just fun, they’re life-saving. Enroll your child in a program that teaches real water skills, not just comfort in the water. 
   2. Formal swim lessons reduce the risk of drowning in children by 88%. 
2. Assign a Water Watcher
   1. Drowning is fast and silent, and you must supervise with your eyes. Don’t assume someone else is watching. During any water activity, especially at parties or gatherings, assign a dedicated Water Watcher:
      1. No chatting, no distractions, no phones
      2. Hold a visible item (like a lanyard, whistle, or wristband) to signal you’re “on duty.”
      3. Switch roles every 15–20 minutes to stay alert and refreshed
3. Fence and Lock Up
   1. A four-sided fence around your pool with a self-latching, self-locking gate dramatically reduces the risk of drowning. Bonus points if it’s completely separate from the house.
4. Use U.S. Coast Guard–Guard-approved life Jackets
   1. Life jackets are a must for lakes, boats, or open water. But remember: pool noodles, floaties, and inflatable wings are not safety devices and can create a false sense of security.
5. Learn CPR
   1. If a drowning incident happens, every second counts. CPR with rescue breaths can double or triple a child’s chances of survival. Make sure at least one adult nearby is trained, and keep a phone close in case you need to call 911.

Bottom Line

• This 4th of July, go with confidence:
  • Ensure swim competence 
  • Supervise closely
  • Secure your pool
  • Use lifejackets
  • Learn CPR