Tag Archive for: drown alliance

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March 2023 Water Safety Champion of the Month: Bill Ramos

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Our Water Safety Champions are the people that go above and beyond in their communities to focus on water safety and drowning prevention, which is why it’s so important that we recognize and celebrate those that champion water safety every day!

We are thrilled to celebrate Bill Ramos as our Water Safety Champion of the Month this March!

About William (Bill) Ramos

Bill Ramos is an incredible aquatic and water safety community member as a researcher, leader, and service provider. Bill is an associate professor at Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington and Director of the Indiana University Aquatics Institute. 

Internationally respected in aquatics with an excellent aquatic, water safety, and drowning prevention research resume, Bill is the chair of the aquatic sub-council of the Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council. He has also been a vital member of the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan.

Growing Up On Lake Michigan

Bill grew up in Gary, Indiana, and still loves his hometown working with city leadership on aquatic risk management.

Gary, IN, is located on the southern tip of Lake Michigan and is home to several beaches, local parks, and, most famously, The Jackson Five!

Bill grew up being on the water and gained a love for all things aquatic. As a teen, he joined his local swim team and later became a lifeguard on Lake Michigan. 

Being a lifeguard during his summers, he was part of several rescues. But, sadly, even with the many rescues in his repertoire, he witnessed firsthand the tragic results of a drowning accident. 

At that moment, it became clear to Bill that drowning was preventable. He knew there were ways to educate and advocate for the public on this problem. 

Because of Bill’s love of aquatics, he obtained degrees in Parks & Recreation Administration and then a Ph.D. in Leisure Behavior. He worked in the areas of aquatic management and swim coaching until later becoming a professor at Indiana University.

Throughout his career, he shares his love of water and actively advocates for people to engage with the water. He feels that being in and around water is fun and should be enjoyed by everyone. 

Bill emphasizes that drowning is a preventable tragedy and that if we work together, we can empower people everywhere to engage with water safely. 

The Joys of Water

Bill works locally, nationally, and internationally to help everyone have the knowledge and skills to engage in water activities safely.

Water can be an enjoyable outlet, even with therapeutic benefits. Yet, some people still don’t have access to water or are afraid to engage in aquatic-based activities due to the lack of opportunity to learn to swim in their communities.


Bill is currently working with the Miller Beach Water Safety Group to provide drowning prevention education, life jacket loners, and water safety stations throughout Miller Beach, Indiana.

Thank You For Making A Difference!

Without Water Safety Champions like Bill Ramos, Robin Taylor, and David Albornoz, we couldn’t change the numbers and continue educating about the best water safety practices and strategies. 

The NDPA is honored to present this accolade for Bill’s hard work and passion for his community.

Thank you for being a Water Safety Champion, Bill Ramos!

If you are making a difference in water safety and drowning prevention or know someone who has, we want to hear your story. 

Please take a moment to share the story on our website for a chance to be nationally recognized as a Water Safety Champion.

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10 Open Water Safety Tips

10 open water safety tips

Lakes, beaches, and rivers are popular destinations for families during spring break and the summer season. It’s the best way to have some fun family time and remain cool as soon as temperatures rise. Consider the open-water safety tips below if you decide to go this route on your next vacation.

Most children in the U.S. drown in open water, which includes natural bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and oceans, as well as man-made bodies of water like canals, reservoirs, and retention ponds. In 2016, open-water drownings made up 43 percent of fatal childhood drownings.*

Beaches are a favorite destination during the summer months

The first thing needed to prevent drowning incidents when in open water is learning how to swim, which has proven to be a lifesaving skill that can reduce the chances of drowning by 88%. Following the open water safety tips below will also ensure you have the most amount of fun by reducing the risks and hazards that come with open water.

1. Swim in a Designated Swimming Area

Most state parks, beaches, and lakefront areas have designated times when swimming is allowed and use flags to indicate borders in which people can swim. Never swim outside those defined areas. Also, preferably swim under the supervision of a qualified lifeguard.

2. When in Doubt, Get Out

Don’t hesitate to get out of the water if something doesn’t feel right. Whether it’s that the current is getting rough, rain has started to fall, or your body is just not responding like you would like it to due to fatigue or muscle cramps, then just leave and return to the water another day. It’s always a good thing to trust your instincts.

3. Know the Weather and Water Conditions

Check the water temperature and weather conditions before hitting the water. If the water temperature is low, your best option would be to swim in a wetsuit and don’t stay too long in the water. Bear in mind it’s not safe to swim in the rain, particularly if there is thunder and lightning. If the weather changes, don’t hesitate to swim back to shore.

Black family at the beach

4. Never Swim Alone

When you head out into the open water, go with a “swim buddy,” someone who’s looking out for you and who you’re looking out for in turn. Remember, the lifeguard isn’t your “swim buddy”; they have lots of people to track when on duty and cannot be concerned with a particular person’s safety. Besides, you’ll probably have more fun swimming with a friend.

5. Choose the Right Equipment

It’s very important always to choose the right equipment for your open water activity: wetsuits if the water is cold, goggles if swimming, and so on. Please note that if water temperatures are over 75-80 degrees, a wetsuit might not be a good idea. Using one for extended periods could cause heat exhaustion.

6. Understand Currents

Uncontrollables are all part of experiencing the ocean and open bodies of water. Rip tides, other currents, and waves can all sweep you away from your swimming route. By choosing a static “beacon” on your boat or at the shore you’ll be able to determine if you are being swept away or not. If you do get caught in a riptide, don’t panic. Try to remain calm and swim parallel to shore to get out of it. If you try to swim against the current, you might get exhausted and really panic even more.

7. No Alcohol

Alcohol affects your perception of danger, making you more likely to take unnecessary risks. Alcohol also impairs your balance and coordination – all essential for swimming and boating and avoiding hazards in the water. So don’t drink while in the water.

Kid with life vest on canoe

8. Wear a USCG-Approved Life Vest


Young children, weak swimmers, and everybody should wear life jackets whenever they are in, on, or around the water, even at a pool or a waterpark. It should be put on at the dock, deck, or shore and not removed until you return to dry land.

9. Have A Plan For Emergencies


Always have a plan to handle and face emergencies whenever you go out to the water with a swim buddy or alone. Tell someone else where you are going. Having someone watching from the shore, ready to take action should you need help, is wise. Plan for every possible incident and eliminate as much uncertainty as possible.

10. Swim Parallel to the Shore


If ever caught in a rip current, don’t let fear cloud your judgment. You could be swept away from shore very quickly. The best way to escape a rip current is by swimming parallel to the shore instead of towards it since most rip currents are an average of 100 feet wide. Try to relax and breathe, keeping your head above water, and don’t wear yourself out by trying to get out of the rip by swimming against the force of the current.

*Source: Hidden Hazards: An Exploration of Open Water Drowning and Risks for Children. Safe Kids Worldwide. May 2018.

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The Latest Information on Water Safety and Drowning Prevention

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For many, water is a source of joy and memory – bringing together even the unlikeliest of pairs. However, water is an element that deserves our respect and attention. 

Drowning is a tragedy that can happen to anyone. Unfortunately, it is fast, silent, and often not what you would expect, so it’s essential to learn the latest available water safety and drowning prevention information.

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Data & Statistics on Drowning

The following data and research has been compiled over the past few years from sources such as the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), WHO (World Health Organization), and the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics). Learning the latest drowning statistics is crucial to understanding how drowning can affect anyone and its impact on society.

General Drowning Statistics:

  • Drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of injury-related death for children up to age 14. 
  • There is an average of 4,012 unintentional drowning deaths per year.
  • Drowning remains among the top four causes of death from age 54 and up.
  • The U.S. experiences an average of 11 fatal drownings per day and an average of 22 non-fatal drownings per day.
  • More than 40% of drownings treated in the Emergency Department require hospitalization, transfer, or further care (compared with 8% of all unintentional injuries). Outcomes of morbidity include brain damage, other serious outcomes, and long-term disability.
  • Drowning costs the U.S. Economy $51.53 billion per year.
  • Drowning is fast and silent. It can happen in as little as 20-60 seconds.
  • Nearly 80% of drowning deaths are among males due to increased exposure to water, risk-taking behaviors, and alcohol use.
  • Based on data from 2020, unintentional drowning deaths between ages 20-24 have increased by 44%, and ages 25-29 have increased by 29%.

Drowning Statistics on Children:

  • 88% of child drownings occur with at least 1 adult present.
  • We lose 10 school buses worth of children to unintentional drownings per year, with the average school bus seating 80 students, resulting in an average of 854 children per year.
  • For every child that dies from drowning, another 7 to 8 receive emergency department care for non-fatal drowning. Almost 70% of drownings of young children occur during non-swim.
  • Two out of three drowning incidents that take place in the home occur in a bathtub.
  • 23% of child drownings happen during a family gathering near a pool.

Racial & Ethnic Groups Drowning Statistics

  • In swimming pools, Black children ages 10-14 years drown at rates 7.6 times higher than White children.
  • Black children and youth are more likely to drown in public pools, and white children and youth are more likely to drown in residential pools.
  • Drowning death rates for American Indian or Alaska Native people ages 29 and younger are 2 times higher than the rates for White people, with the highest disparities among those ages 25-29 (rates 3.5 times higher).
  • Drowning death rates for Black people are 1.5 times higher than the rates for White people. Disparities are highest among Black children ages 5-9 (rates 2.6 times higher) and ages 10-14 (rates 3.6 times higher).

Drowning Statistics on People With Disabilities/Medical Conditions

  • People with seizure disorders such as epilepsy are at a higher risk of fatal and non-fatal drowning than the general population. Other conditions, such as autism and heart conditions, are also associated with a higher risk of drowning.
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Water Safety & Drowning Prevention Internal Resources

We offer a wide range of resources at the NDPA to assist you in learning about the latest water safety and drowning prevention efforts across various industries, including residential pools and spas, commercial aquatics, pediatrics, and resources for parents and caregivers.

Some of our best internal resources for water safety and drowning prevention include:

NDPA’s ‘Learn the 5 Layers of Protection’ Animated Video

Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Industry Updates

With recent research findings, water safety legislation, and awareness campaigns currently circulating in the water safety industry, there are many areas of expertise to be mindful of. Only together can we reduce the incidence of drowning and aquatic injuries.  

The following resources are key items to utilize when keeping up to date with the latest water safety and drowning prevention industry: 

Drowning is Preventable!

The National Drowning Prevention Alliance is dedicated to preventing the tragedies of unintentional childhood drownings and aquatic injuries through research, education, and advocacy initiatives. 

Drowning is a complex problem, but it is preventable.

Prevention starts with awareness, education, and implementation of the latest water safety and drowning prevention efforts, statistics, and resources. 

Water safety and drowning prevention is a lifelong endeavor, but it can save a life.

Join the alliance today and help us make a difference in ending drowning and aquatic-related injuries!

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February 2023 Water Safety Champion of the Month: Robin Taylor

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The aquatics industry has impacted so many lives, and for the past 21 years at the Brigantine Aquatic Center, Robin Taylor has advocated water safety for hundreds of children in the Atlantic City Area.  

We are thrilled to celebrate Robin Taylor as our Water Safety Champion of the Month this February!

Robin’s Career Progression in the Aquatics Industry

Robin’s Career in aquatics started when she became a parent to her daughter in 1976. Robin knew of the statistics around drowning when her daughter was still an infant.

 “I didn’t want her to be a statistic. I knew there was something that could prevent her from becoming one of the numbers, and I started her in swimming lessons when she was a baby.” 

After a while, swimming classes for her daughter became costly, which opened her up to volunteer for what is now the Ocean County YMCA, where she eventually became the head instructor for Red Cross CPR & First Aid and the first to complete a new state paramedic program at the Community Hospital of Toms River.

Robin states, “When you start teaching one person, you realize how much difference you can make and all the lives you touch with something as simple as teaching a child how to float.”

After many years of success, Robin took a temporary leave from the aquatics industry but continued to contribute to her community in any way she could, eventually fundraising over $1 million for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

How Robin Started the Brigantine Aquatic Center

The opening of the Brigantine Aquatic Center all started with the question of where the young children of Brigantine, NJ, could receive swimming lessons. 

“I remember going to a local dance recital with my sister, and I had asked her where the kids went for swimming lessons, and she said “There’s not a place around here built for that,” and I simply responded, ‘Well, we should build one,” states Robin.

“They laughed when I mentioned it, but I was set out to build an aquatic center to share the passion I had for swimming with others.” 

The Brigantine Aquatic Center was then opened in 2001, where Robin currently owns and mentors her aquatic teachers with her husband, daughter, and niece. It is now the home of a wide range of swim programs that has taught more than 7,500 children and is the home of the GreenHeads Swimming Team, a Special Olympics Swim Team, and a Master’s Team. 

Additionally, Robin is deeply involved with the Atlantic City community in which she launched Green Whales Inc, a non-profit that funds program’s like Whelan’s Whales, Greenheads Swimming, and Stanley’s Special Friends to support free swimming programs for inner-city youth.

Thank You For Making a Difference in Water Safety!

Without Robin’s help, many children in the Atlantic City Area would not have had the opportunity to learn how to swim and find passion within the aquatics industry. Her impact in her community has launched countless scholarships, donations, and funding opportunities for children to get involved in swimming.

Her approach to water safety is very hands-on, and she strives to continue to make water safety education and swimming available for every child in New Jersey with the help of more water safety legislation.

As a founding member of the New Jersey Swim Safety Alliance, she is currently working towards passing Bill A618, which requires school districts to provide water safety instruction as part of New Jersey’s Student Learning Standards for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education in grades Kindergarten through 12. 

“Children and parents need the information to protect themselves in the water,” Robin states, “No parent wants their child to become a tragic statistic.”

The NDPA is honored to present this accolade for Robin’s hard work and passion for her community.

Thank you for being a Water Safety Champion, Robin Taylor!

If you are making a difference in water safety and drowning prevention or know someone who has, we want to hear your story. 

Please take a moment to share the story on our website for a chance to be nationally recognized as a Water Safety Champion.

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Water Safety Champion of the Month: David Albornoz of Como Park Pool – Jan 2023

Another year has passed, and we can’t help but look forward to all that 2023 has to offer!

It is with great excitement that the NDPA finally launched our Water Safety Champion of the Month campaign to recognize the hard-working people that are making a difference in drowning prevention and water safety.

With drowning being the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4, we must acknowledge those that are doing their part to save lives by becoming Water Safety Champions.

By learning, advocating, and implementing the 5 Layers of Protection, these individuals are actively reducing the number of drownings every single day.

One of those individuals is our first-ever Water Safety Champion of the Month, Coach David Albornoz, of Como Park Pool in St. Paul, Minnesota!

David’s Unique Background in Aquatics

In his native country of Venezuela, David Albornoz began his career in aquatics as a beach lifeguard at age 15.

Growing up in a country with friends and family that were around water constantly, he became increasingly heartbroken when he realized how profound the issue of drowning was, especially when he moved to the United States in 2002.

“I had nightmares for the families that had to experience the loss of a child. And the worst part to me was that it was completely preventable. The sad reality is: there isn’t enough access to water safety education, especially for kids of color,” Albornoz states.

Coach David had the vision to prevent drownings and save lives, and in doing so, he continued lifeguarding during his pursual of a Master’s Degree in the Arts of International Law.

Eventually, he felt the pull to return to the aquatic industry and has been coaching, lifeguarding, and advocating water safety and drowning prevention for about 30 years.

How David Is Advocating Water Safety at Como Park Pool

A proud member of St. Paul’s community, Coach David promotes water safety efforts every day and continues to motivate high school students to pursue aquatic careers.

David’s approach to continuing water safety efforts makes a huge difference when inspiring young students to pursue a career path in aquatics during this time of lifeguard shortages.

“It’s never too late to form a connection, especially for marginalized youth. Because I look and sound more like a minority, I think it becomes more memorable and relatable to those that grew up in a different cultural background,” says Albornoz.

Beyond just having a diverse aquatic and cultural background, David has teamed up with many different groups in his community to prevent drowning. In the spring of 2022, a Minnesota-based charity run by Alison Petri, Abbey’s Hope Charitable Foundation, approached Coach David and his team to help spread water safety education in the public schools across their community.

“I’m not a planner,” Albornoz joked, “but I am an executor and your number one person on the ground. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to save lives. Tell me what to do, and I will do it”.

In his community outreach efforts, he has even started a program called Rec Check Program: Safe In The Water, which provides after-school care for youth opportunities to swim and receive water safety presentations to children for an hour and a half every week.

Using this weekly program, kids can stay safe both in and out of the water more consistently while encouraging them to become more active at the same time.

Thank You For Making a Difference!

We could have lost thousands of children to preventable drownings if David hadn’t worked tirelessly to prevent these tragedies. His impact in the community has made a profound impact not just in his community but on a national level.

His approach to water safety is incredibly proactive, uplifting, and positively contagious. The NDPA is honored to present this accolade for the hard work and the passion David brings to his daily life.

Thank you for being a Water Safety Champion, David Albornoz!

If you are making a difference or know someone who has, we want to hear your story.

Please take a moment to share the story on our website for a chance to be nationally recognized as a Water Safety Champion at ndpa.org/nominate-wsc/.

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10 New Year Resolutions That Will Make You A Water Safety Champion

Education and knowledge is the key for everything and definitely something we should focus on in the new year. 

According to the CDC, an average of 10 fatal drowning incidents happen in the USA every day and is the leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for children 1-4 years, the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for children 1-14 years, and is the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for all ages in the United States.  The WHO has reported that drowning is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide, accounting for 7% of all injury-related deaths. 

This makes drowning a very serious issue that should be addressed throughout the year in order to avoid and prevent fatal and non-fatal drowning incidents. The beginning of a new year is the best time to plan exactly how we can do this in the form of water safety resolutions.

Here are ten to get you started:

1.- Learn the Five Layers of Protection

The term “layers of protection” is one used to classify the majority of strategies directly affecting aquatic environments. Parents, caregivers, residential pool owners, aquatic facility owners, managers and operators should use “layers of protection” to provide a system of increased security to prevent unauthorized access to bodies of water, especially important for children. This means that multiple strategies or devices are used constantly and simultaneously.

Click here to learn the Five Layers of Protection to prevent drowning.

2.- Practice water safety at home

  • Never leave your child alone in the bathtub—even for a moment. Many bathtub drownings happen (even in a few inches of water) when a parent leaves a small child alone or with another young child. Also, bath seats are just bathing aids. Bath seats can tip over and your child can slip out of them, so they won’t prevent drowning.
  • Empty water from containers, such as large pails and 5-gallon buckets, immediately after use.
  • Keep bathroom doors closed. Install door knob covers or a hook-and-eye latch or other lock that is out of the reach of your small child.
  • Keep toilets closed. Always close the toilet lid, and consider using a toilet lid latch.

Find more ways to be water safe at home in our blog post Home Water Safety Tips.

3.- Teach your children about water safety

Families have always played a vital role in teaching kids how important it is to learn to swim and behave safely in and around the water. If your child isn’t able to take formal swim lessons right now, you can still help them learn to be safer around backyard pools, ponds or other natural bodies of water.

These are some great resources to help you get started.

4.- Actively support the NDPA to promote water safety and drowning prevention all year long.

The mission of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance is to reduce the incidence of drowning and aquatic injuries in the US and abroad. United, we can reach our goal of 0 drownings.

Whether you join or support the alliance in other ways, you can empower your communities to take more action, touch more lives, and make an even greater difference. Check out 5 Ways You Can Support The NDPA for more ideas.

5.- Promote water safety and ways to prevent drowning in your community.

Find information, actions and resources to get your community involved in water safety advocacy efforts whether they be in person or online at the NDPA Resource Center.

Then call a neighborhood gathering to get started!

6.- Enroll your children in swimming lessons.

Swim skills add a layer of protection to prevent drowning incidents. Formal swimming lessons reduce the risk of drowning among children 1-4 years by 88%. This is the only sport that can actually save lives and can also reduce the risk of drowning among older individuals.

Water competency and swim lessons should be continuous, and not taken for just one season – skills need to be developed and maintained during the entire year. Identify the right swim program for your child by downloading our Swim Program Decision Chart and our Swim Program Checklist!

7.- Learn CPR with rescue breaths. Compression-only CPR does not treat drowning.

Anyone who lives in a home with a pool should learn CPR and rescue breathing. CPR training and certification should be refreshed every one to two years, depending upon the certification agency, or more frequently if there have been recent changes in recommendations.

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.

8.- Invest in a life vest for each member of the family.

A life jacket is a very effective life-saving strategy in the quest to reduce the number of fatal drowning incidents in the country, especially in open water.

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) tested and approved life jackets should be worn by everyone, when in or around open/natural bodies of water, and when boating. Life jackets should be sized appropriately for the wearer.  When other layers of protection may break down, life jackets can help prevent unintentional drowning. Learn more about it here.

9.- Register for the 2023 National Water Safety Conference

The conference is a great fit for anyone involved in child safety advocacy, injury prevention, safety education, water safety, drowning prevention, first response, public health, public policy, aquatics, and many more areas!

This year the #NWSC2023 will be offered from February 13 – 16, 2023 in-person and virtually, co-located with the 2023 AOAP Annual Conference at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, CO.

We have 80+ speakers lined up this year, and with the ALL ACCESS PASS you won’t need to worry about missing sessions or trying to soak in the education all at once! Get access to every keynote, live session, workshop, and training for up to 5 months after the conference!

Register now!

10.- Join the NDPA Water Safety Warriors Group and sign up to become a Water Safety Champion!

The NDPA has the goal of bringing everyone who has a vested interest in drowning prevention and water safety together. This way, we can provide education and resources to prevent drowning and aquatic injury by making water safer to enjoy.

By providing this space to connect to each other, access to the most current information, and share resources to help  be more effective in our efforts, we are sure can reach our goal to end accidental drownings! Just click to join!

Want to become a Water Safety Champion? Here’s how!

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5 Reasons to Support Water Safety Organizations During the Holidays

The holidays are in full swing! This is a joyous season for many of us – from gift-giving, visiting family and friends, and baking holiday confections – there’s so much to be thankful for. 

Despite the joyous overtones of the season, many families and friends have had to deal with the unexpected ups and downs of losing a loved one to drowning or other aquatic-related injuries.

Throughout the year, many water safety organizations (including the NDPA) work hard to educate families, children, and their communities about the importance of water safety. Still, the holidays are the perfect opportunity to bring attention to the urgent need to prevent drownings.

We want to make the giving process as easy and understandable as possible, so here are some of the best reasons to support water safety organizations and continue to end the tragedy of childhood drownings.  

1. Drowning is the Leading Cause of Death in Children Ages 1-4

The statistics are shocking: drowning is still the leading cause of unintentional death for children between the ages of 1 and 4 and remains in the top 4 causes of death for ages 54 and up. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, that number correlates to an average of 4,012 unintentional drowning deaths per year based on data from 2011-2020. 

It’s important to know that drowning can happen to anyone, but there are steps to help reduce this staggering amount of lost lives each year. Although accidents happen, pool owners, owners of properties with large water features, and parents with young children must remain vigilant regarding water safety.

Drowning can happen in as little as 30 seconds, so no single water safety strategy is enough. 

Organizations that actively share information about the 5 Layers of Protection to prevent drowning – Barriers & Alarms, Supervision, Water Competency, Life Jackets, and Emergency Preparation – should earn your support because they provide information on the best five water safety strategies that can reduce drowning risks.

2. Drowning Costs the U. S. Economy Over 50 Billion Per Year

While it’s true that many aquatic activities have significant physical and social benefits, those that aren’t practicing proper water safety strategies are at a greater risk of drowning. 

Through the CDC WISQARS cost of injury module, the total estimated cost of drowning (fatal and nonfatal) in the U.S. in 2020 was $53.53 billion. This calculation includes the addition of the cost of emergency services and hospitalizations related to drownings.

Based on this statistic alone, it is clear that drowning is not only a public health problem but an economic problem that will continue to increase if awareness and education about drowning prevention efforts are not brought to light. 

When you donate to a water safety organization, you are contributing to saving lives in your community and reducing the economic burden on our country. 

3. Donations Help Expand Vital Research and Funding Programs

Many water safety organizations depend on donation dollars to help promote programs and research collaboration efforts to help prevent drowning.

To keep the research gaps narrow and prioritize evidence-informed strategies for water safety, it is necessary to expand research and funding programs for drowning prevention.

Donating to water safety organizations also supports swim lesson grants, life jacket loaner stations, research summits, and programs that make water safety education readily available to the general public and government officials.

4. Even Small Donations Can Make a Huge Impact on Local Communities

When you want to change the numbers globally, it all starts with making a difference locally, and a little can go a long way.

  • Talk to your local water safety and drowning prevention organizations to see what your community needs most:
  • Is there a shortage of lifeguards due to the cost of certifications?
  • Are there children in need of swim program scholarships?
  • Does your community lake need support in building a life jacket loaner station?
  • Do your local non-profit organizations need donations for materials for hosting a water safety day at local schools?

The contributions you make to water safety organizations that work on local initiatives like the above are essential, and a $25-$50 donation can have a significant impact on local families.

Find the nearest water safety organization near you and see what type of opportunities they offer and how you can get involved. Remember, every donation counts!

5. Non-Profit Donations Are Tax-Deductible

Did you know that donating to a 501(c)(3) non-profit can make you eligible for certain tax deductions?

The tax deduction associated with donating can make donating seem more tangible, as you can see it comes directly from the slight decrease in your income taxes.

As an added benefit, you’ll save a little on your giving list for the season, which is a great financial incentive to contribute to the safety of your community!

To search for a tax-exempt water safety organization, use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search Tool.

Supporting Water Safety Organizations this Holiday Season

No matter which water safety organization you choose, remember that the intention behind your donation matters more than the amount. Even $5 can help an underprivileged community have better access to swimming lessons or help fund the salary of a lifeguard.

At NDPA, we are beyond thankful for the generosity of our donors, members, partners, and continued supporters throughout the holiday season.

Without all of you, achieving our mission to prevent the tragedy of drowning would not be possible!


For more information about how you can support NDPA and get connected with your local water safety and drowning prevention organizations visit our website at NDPA.org.

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Why Water Supervision Alone Doesn’t Prevent Drowning 

Drowning incidents can occur both when people are actively engaged in water activities and during non-swim times, all when an adult is present. According to the World Health Organization, a lapse in adult water supervision is the main contributing factor when young children die from drowning, even when safety measures are implemented. Fortunately, drowning is preventable but is often a result of human and environmental factors that can be improved upon with proper education and awareness.

Through years of research and collaboration with Alliance Partners and Advisors, we have developed the concept of the 5 Layers of Protection to be utilized in any aquatic environment to aid in the prevention of childhood drowning. 

While these layers are put into place as a system of increased security, each Layer of Protection should be used constantly and simultaneously in an effort to buy as much time as possible for capable adults to respond to unintentional water submersion. Each individual layer can fail, which is why the use of multiple layers at the same time is critically important. Drownings are fast, silent, and often do not look like we would expect them to. Most children will not be able to call out for help.

The Important Role Water Supervision Plays In Drowning Prevention

Children should be supervised at all times due to their naturally curious nature. Water can be fascinating and irresistible to young kids, especially if they are just learning to be mobile. 

Young children are not aware of danger yet, so it is the responsibility of a capable and alert adult to actively watch over them, even at home.

Follow these Supervision best practices in conjunction with the other 5 Layers of Protection: 

  • The  “3 C’s” of Supervision: 

    Close: 
    An adult should be within arm’s length of infants, toddlers, and children who lack water competency skills whenever in or around water

    Constant: 
    An adult must have uninterrupted attention on children at all times. That means no reading, cell phone use, or other distractions. 

    Capable: 
    Supervision of children should be done by a capable adult that can swim and knows life-saving skills, like performing CPR with rescue breaths.
  • Having General House Rules: 
    When water is present, always be aware of where your children are and never leave them unattended. Remind guests with children, babysitters, and caregivers about the potential water hazards and the need for constant and capable supervision. If a child is missing, always check the water first – each second counts!
  • Never Substitute Floatation Devices For Supervision: 
    “Water Wings” or “floaties,” inflatable water rings, and other pool toys are NOT safety devices. Only US Coast Guard-approved life jackets are designed and tested for safety. Be aware of any floatation devices marketed and sold in a way that references “learn to swim easily” or “parents can finally enjoy peace of mind.” There is not a single flotation device that replaces adult supervision for children in and around water.
  • Water Watchers: 
    Have a designated Water Watcher when engaging in water activities. A designated Water Watcher is a responsible and capable adult who agrees to actively and constantly supervise children in or around water without engaging in other activities or distractions. 

    Water Watchers should rotate every 15 minutes to keep their attention fresh. Ensure your designated Water Watcher is clearly identified with a Water Watcher card. You can download yours here.
  • Lifeguards: 
    When possible, swim near lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained in supervision, water rescue, and emergency response.  However, caregivers and parents should always maintain active supervision, even with a lifeguard present. 

Why Water Supervision Fails 

Life is hectic, and distractions will happen. In a matter of seconds, so can a drowning. A phone call, a package being delivered at the door, cleaning up a spill, or a quick trip to the bathroom are all distractions that can cause supervision to fail.

Children are curious and could venture near water even during non-swim times when water supervision is not “expected” to be required. Sadly, 70% of drownings among young children happen during these non-swim times. This is another way supervision alone can unintentionally fail, and why it’s so important that the 5 Layers of Protection are used together! 

  1. 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.
  1. Supervision
    Stay 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.
  1. Water Competency
    Every 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.
  1. Life Jackets
    When 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.
  1. Emergency Preparation
    Knowing 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.

Remember, layers work together! Water 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. 

Supervision – An Important Part of the 5 Layers of Protection 

A child’s life is precious, and children’s safety in and around water is the responsibility of parents and caregivers. Supervision is a very important layer of protection, but it cannot be relied upon alone. By using all 5 Layers of Protection, you are doing all you can to keep your child safe in and around water. You never know which layer will save a life!

For more information about Supervision and the 5 Layers of Protection, visit our website at NDPA.org

Residential Pool and Spa Professionals Advocate Water Safety by Becoming Water Safety Champions – Nov 2022

Reports from 2020 demonstrated that ownership of residential swimming pools rose by 23%. While this represents an undeniable victory for the industry, it also has a tragic side. 

Drowning is still the single leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for ages 5-18.  

In light of the growing popularity of backyard swimming pools, residential pool and spa professionals have a unique opportunity to advocate for water safety. As experts in the pool industry, pool and spa professionals have comprehensive knowledge of the regulations needed to make public and residential pools, spas, and hot tubs safe by following resources such as the International Swimming Pool & Spa Code and PHTA Standards.

With the support of many of our new connections made at the PSP/Deck Expo 2022, and with our existing collaborators, we wanted to make advocating for water safety easy for pool and spa professionals while on the job. Keeping up with the latest advancements in the industry is vital for our pool builders and pool service professionals to keep their communities safe, which is why we designed our Water Safety Champion Program so pool and spa pros could easily add basic water safety awareness checks with their servicing.

The Importance of Water Safety in a Residential Setting

A residential pool and spa can be a beautiful oasis for homeowners, however, that does not diminish the risk of drowning hazards around the backyard and the home. 

Even in your backyard, drowning can occur in less than 30 seconds and with very little water, so it is crucial to implement the 5 Layers of Protection to help keep families safe. 

It is up to pool builders and pool service professionals to encourage water safety by making families aware of pool safety features that can aid in the prevention of drowning and the importance of having a safety plan put into place.

Learning about the best water safety strategies through the Layers of Protection and becoming a Water Safety Champion, residential pool and spa professionals can pass along vital information to their customers and community members beyond just routine maintenance. 

When Residential Pool & Spa Professionals Become Water Safety Champions: 

After sign-up, pool and spa pros will receive exclusive access to NDPA’s Residential Pool and Spa  Toolkit which includes: 

  • A personal Water Safety Champion Certificate showcasing their advocacy for water safety
  • A brandable Pool Safety Checklist to include with routine pool maintenance checks
  • Various tools and resources like:
    • The Layers of Protection Digital Brochure & Animated Video
    • Shareable Social Media Posts & Videos
    • GIFs & Stickers

By implementing the Layers of Protection and sharing their Water Safety Champion Status, residential pool and spa professionals can help protect the lives of children and work together to spread the word about drowning prevention and water safety to their clients.

Residential Pool & Spa Professionals, Become a Water Safety Champion Today!

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Pediatricians Make Water Safety A Priority By Becoming A Water Safety Champion – Nov 2022

From the moment children are born, parents often become aware of all the dangers that appear as they grow and become curious. Although most of these dangers are part of life, drowning is silent, quick, and can be fatal. According to the CDC, for every 1 fatal childhood drowning, there are another 8 nonfatal drownings that are seen in an emergency department. Thankfully, with the proper water safety strategies and advocacy, drowning is easily preventable. 

Along with our collective efforts, many pediatricians are now prioritizing drowning prevention initiatives beyond their offices. With the support of the NDPA’s Chief Medical Advisor and AAP (the American Academy of Pediatrics) president-elect Dr. Benjamin Hoffman and fellow NDPA medical advisor, Dr. Julie Gilchrist, we wanted to make water safety easily accessible to other pediatricians and medical advisors. 

To address the ever-present need to advocate for water safety beyond just their practices, NDPA has created an exclusive toolkit for pediatricians with the proper drowning prevention strategies  needed to share and advocate for water safety practices with their patients and parents.

Why Should Pediatricians Become Water Safety Champions?

Pediatricians are critical leaders in their field when it comes to child safety. They often see children for a large portion of their life and learn first-hand what concerns parents have for their children. By having a strong relationship with their patients and parents, pediatricians can uniquely position themselves as water safety advocates to address concerns about water-related injury incidents and drowning risks. 

By learning, advocating, and implementing the Layers of Protection, pediatricians can show parents that they care about more than just providing healthcare to their children, giving them the peace of mind that their children will be safe beyond office hours.

When Pediatricians Become A Water Safety Champion: 

After sign-up, pediatricians will receive exclusive access to NDPA’s Pediatrician Toolkit which includes: 

  • A personal Water Safety Champion Certificate showcasing their advocacy for water safety
  • Printable Water Watcher Cards
  • Awareness Posters to hang in offices
  • The Layers of Protection Digital Brochure
  • Shareable social media posts & videos
  • GIFs & Stickers

As Dr. Ben Hoffman states, “Kids need us. They can’t vote, so they need advocates. Pediatricians, by nature, are advocates by the work we can do, not only at the community level but the policy level to help systems change.” 

Drowning is a preventable tragedy, but it takes all of us to learn and advocate for the latest knowledge and standards for water safety. 

By implementing the Layers of Protection and their Water Safety Champion Status, pediatricians can help protect the lives of children and work together to spread the word about drowning prevention and water safety to their patients and parents.  

Pediatricians, it’s time to support your patients beyond the office by becoming a Water Safety Champion!