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Core Beliefs

First and foremost, we believe that drowning is preventable.
We believe in safer aquatic recreation for everyone.
We believe that any person can drown regardless of age, race, or swimming ability.
We believe that drowning is a complex public health issue requiring a multifaceted approach using multiple prevention strategies.

We believe in layers of protection.
We believe in active adult supervision whenever children are in, on, or around water.
We believe in lifeguards and water watchers.
We believe in multiple barriers to prevent unauthorized access to unsupervised water.
We believe in entrapment prevention and anti-entrapment devices.
We believe all teens and adults should learn CPR.
We believe in safe water rescue techniques.
We believe in swimming instruction that includes water safety education.
We believe swim lesson programs for children should also teach parents realistic expectations of their children’s swimming ability.
We believe that no single prevention strategy can ever be relied on alone.

We believe in scientific research and program evaluation.
We believe in engineering advancements to continually improve equipment performance.
We believe in sound legislation to ensure public safety.
We believe in community outreach and education to promote awareness of drowning dangers and best practice prevention tips.

We believe in boating laws and education that provide for safer water recreation activities.
We believe in U.S. Coast Guard approved life-jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs).
We believe that no one should ever swim alone.
We believe that alcohol and drug use should never be combined with water recreation.
We believe in certification programs for lifeguards and swim instructors.

We believe parents have good intentions for their children.
We believe that the people who have lost their lives or suffered injury from drowning propel us in our mission – they will never be forgotten.
We believe no other parent should endure the tragedy of losing a child to drowning.

We believe that our alliance can make a difference and we believe that…
Drowning is Preventable

Join Us in Celebrating National Water Safety Month

In recognition of the popularity of swimming and other water-related recreational activities in the United States, and the resulting need for ongoing public education on safer water practices, the month of May, 2012 is National Water Safety Month!

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Journey After a Drowning Experience Support

JADES, (Journey After a Drowning Experience Support) Network, was established by the NDPA to offer peer-to-peer support for families and friends who have lost a loved one to a drowning, or whose loved one suffered injury from a drowning incident. The blog is a site where people can share stories, offer encouragement, and extend compassionate support to others who are sharing similar journeys.

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The NDPA recognizes, addresses, and supports drowning prevention efforts for persons of all ages and drowning risks in all types of bodies of water. As a short-term goal we are striving to place emphasis on research, awareness, and policy changes to impact the incidence of toddler drowning in swimming pools. The NDPA is located at 1 Hall of Fame Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316.

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