Emergency Preparation
Responding to Aquatics Emergencies
You can’t predict when an emergency will strike, so knowing how to prepare for a water-related incident can mean the difference between life and death.
Call for Help!
Keep a phone poolside, preferably a landline with the physical address, available for adults to call 9-1-1. Calling from a cell phone won’t always tell the 911 operator your location.
Learn & Practice CPR
Anyone who live in a home with a pool or who is frequently around water should learn CPR with rescue breaths. Require all babysitters, and caregivers to have current CPR training and certification. In groups, such as pool parties, at least one person should know CPR. Proper training and certification should be refreshed every 1-2 years or more frequently if there have been recent changes in recommendations.
Water Safety Course & Rescue Equipment
Pool owners and operators should enroll in a local water safety course that teaches proper rescue techniques. This course should include hands-on practice using rescue equipment. Every pool should have rescue equipment including a reaching and throwing devices for quick rescue, posted CPR instructions and a breathing mask, and a well-stocked first aid kit.
Missing Child
If a child is missing, always check the pool or other water features first. Every Second Counts! If a child cannot be located immediately, call 9-1-1 and enlist assistance when searching.
Know the 5 Layers of Protection
Prevent the tragedy of drowning by implementing the 5 layers of protection.
Barriers & Alarms
Barriers & Alarms It's important to use four-sided fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates, pool safety covers, and alarm systems, to help prevent children and unauthorized adults from accessing water unsupervised.
Learn More
Supervision
SupervisionStay vigilant and aware of your surroundings with close, constant, and capable adult supervision from a designated water watcher or lifeguard anytime children are in or around water.
Learn More
Water Competency
Water CompetencyEvery child and adult should be equipped with the skills to protect themselves in water by learning and enhancing their basic water safety skills to reduce the risk of drowning and aquatic-related injuries.
Learn More
Life Jackets
Life JacketsWhen used appropriately, life jackets protect you when you are not expecting to be in the water, especially around open water. Ensure your life jackets are tested & approved by the USCG.
Learn More
Emergency Preparation
Emergency PreparationKnowing how to prepare for an emergency with CPR training with rescue breaths and basic water rescue skills can make the difference between life and death. Have a phone available and ready to call 911.
Learn More
Layers Work Together
Layers of ProtectionWater safety isn’t just during swim time. Each layer should be used together when in or around water to help reduce the risk of drowning. You never know which layer will save a life.
Learn More
