Tag Archive for: drowning prevention

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June 2023 Water Safety Champions of the Month: Greg Louganis and Matthew Struble

When it comes to water safety – unity and education are vital to further reduce the number of drownings. There is nothing more inspiring than listening to seasoned water safety champions like Greg Louganis inspire the next generation, such as Matthew Struble, to advocate for the best water safety strategies and to bring generations together to solve the drowning epidemic.


We are thrilled to celebrate our June Water Safety Champions of the Month, Greg Louganis and Matthew Struble!

Why Being a Water Safety Champion is Important to Drowning Prevention:

Water Safety Champions play a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of water safety practices and are passionate about educating others about staying safe in and around water. We’ve created the Water Safety Champion program to provide resources, tools, and education to drive awareness and help prevent drownings and aquatic injuries.

Becoming a Water Safety Champion means being a part of a national movement that is focused on reducing the amount of water-related tragedies by doing things such as community outreach, social activism, program development, and water safety education.

Without people like Greg and Matthew, we would undoubtedly face a much larger problem when it comes to water-related tragedies. Their efforts and dedication make a significant impact on raising awareness, educating the public, and implementing safety measures in various aquatic environments.

Greg Louganis– From Olympic Champion to Water Safety Champion

Following his retirement from competitive diving, four-time Olympic gold-medal diver, Greg Louganis, channeled his passion for water into becoming a champion for the cause. Having experienced the risks and dangers associated with water firsthand, he dedicated himself to promoting drowning prevention and educating individuals o water safety practices.

Louganis has worked with numerous organizations, including the USA Diving Foundation, USA Water Polo, and the Red Cross, to raise awareness and provide resources for water safety education. He has conducted clinics, speaking engagements, and demonstrations to help prevent drowning incidents and promote responsible water activities.

As drowning risks are so high for children ages 1-4, parents and caregivers are perceived as being responsible for preventing further drownings. 

This is simply not true. Every single person is susceptible to drowning, regardless of their swimming ability. Accidents can happen to anyone, and it takes everyone working together in order to prevent further tragedy due to drowning. 

Together, Greg and Matthew are changing the landscape of what it looks like to be an advocate for water safety!

Matthew Struble: One of Our Youngest Water Safety Champions!

Matthew’s town had local programs for mental health but none for water safety. 

Living in Florida, where there are pools and natural bodies of water at every corner, it became a major concern for him. To help fill this gap, Matthew used his senior project to organize a program that taught school-aged children the importance of implementing and learning the 5 Layers of Protection, focusing on how children can learn to be prepared in the case of a water emergency. 

“I grew up around water, and I know first-hand how important it is to understand both the benefits and the potential dangers, whether it’s a pool, beach, or even a water park.”

As an avid swimmer since the age of 5 and a Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructor, Matthew leveraged his knowledge and experience to create this life-changing program for young children. Brevard County is now considering Matthew’s program for use in local schools throughout the area.

During his senior class awards night, Matthew was presented with the Water Safety Champion medal and spoke with Greg over Zoom about this incredible honor. 

We look forward to watching Matthew’s incredible journey unfold. We know the positive impact he will undoubtedly have on communities, using his knowledge and passion to uplift and empower those around him. Congratulations on this exciting new chapter, and we can’t wait to see what happens next! 

Thank You For Making A Difference In Water Safety!

It takes courage to stand up for what you believe in, but Greg and Matthew prove that anything is possible if you have the drive and determination to succeed. They are an inspiration to us all, reminding us that we can make a difference no matter who we are or where we come from.

Thank you for being Water Safety Champions!

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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How To Create a Water Safety Plan for Family Vacations

Have you created a water safety plan for your upcoming vacation?

Now that school’s out for the summer, families from all over will flock to vacation spots, water parks, pools, and beaches for fun in the sun. There’s nothing better than a good vacation, but things can turn from fun to tragic in an instant. Sadly, drowning remains the single leading cause of accidental death in children ages 1-4 in the United States. 

Here are some ways to help your family prepare for being in and around the water during your next family vacation.

family creating water safety plan

Develop A Water Safety Plan With Your Family BEFORE Your Vacation

It’s important to be proactive when it comes to water safety. Sitting your family down to create a family water safety plan will help ensure everyone is on the same page in case of an emergency.

  1. Start by having all adults and teens review the 5 Layers of Protection. 
  2. We recommend having all family members sign up for swimming lessons and CPR/first aid classes before any vacation. Whether introducing or refreshing, continuous practice and proficiency can mean the difference between life and death.
  3. When booking accommodations, make sure that your accommodations have the 5 Layers of Protection in place. Use our Vacation Water Safety Checklists to help with your planning, booking, and packing! 
  4. Have all adults take a water rescue training class from a qualified instructor in case rescue or CPR is necessary.
  5. To ensure a quick response to emergencies, make sure the address and an emergency contact list are clearly displayed at the property and are easily accessible. 
  6. Identifying potential dangers and water features in and around the property you will be staying at to address any risks immediately upon arrival.
  7. Bring a printed copy of these Pool Rules Signs with you as a reminder for kids, family members, and guests that are visiting with you at your vacation spot.
  8. Children should never be left unsupervised. Choose a capable adult as the designated “water watcher” to keep a vigilant eye on kids in and around the water. Print out our Water Watcher Cards and bring these with you!   
  9. Bring portable door alarms for your hotel/AirBnB’s sliding doors and front doors to alert you of a child potentially leaving the room or house. 
  10. Bring personal alarms for little swimmers or pets! Always keep in mind that alarms should never be a replacement for capable adult supervision.
  11. Make sure everyone brings a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket in their size for all water sports, boating, and open water activities. 

Take the initiative and make water safety a priority on your next family vacation to help change the statistics for drowning. 

Reacting To A Water Emergency

In the face of a water emergency, every second counts. Reacting swiftly and confidently can save a life. Here are some things we recommend your family be well versed in and prepared for:

  1. If a loved one, especially a child, goes missing, always check the water first. If the missing person cannot be found, call 9-1-1 and enlist assistance while searching.
  2. If someone is found in the water, the first step is removing them from the water and laying them on a flat surface. 
  3. Call 9-1-1 immediately and give them the exact address for where you are located.
  4. While waiting for paramedics to arrive, provide CPR with rescue breaths to help sustain their vital functions. (You can alternate while waiting for emergency services to come, but do not stop).

Remember, being prepared and acting decisively in water emergencies can be life-saving. Stay vigilant, remain calm, and take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of those involved.

family safe with water safety plan

Water Safety Plan Best Practices During Your Vacation

Once you arrive at your destination, the real work begins. Before diving into the fun, set aside some time to review your water safety plan as a family. Take the first hour or so to review emergency procedures and water safety regulations. Everyone should be present and on the same page when it comes to vacation safety! Here are some best practices for you to exercise and keep at the top of your mind: 

  • Always remember that the 5 Layers of Protection are portable! Meaning you can consistently implement them to varying degrees while you’re out. 
  • Educate children on the extreme importance of water safety, and ensure that adults understand the latest statistics surrounding drowning incidents.
  • No one should ever be exploring or wandering the property alone. This is a general rule of thumb for all family members, so encourage all members of your group to use a buddy system!
  • Always exercise water safety precautions around open water and pools. There are significant variables to consider around open water, like weather and water conditions, beach flag warning systems, and staying close to lifeguard stations. 

Water safety is everyone’s responsibility, and ensuring the well-being of loved ones requires a comprehensive water safety plan. 

By involving everyone and fostering a culture of awareness, you can ensure that your family’s vacation remains an enjoyable experience for years to come!

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May 2023 Water Safety Champion of the Month: Liz Huber

CAST water safety foundation Liz Huber

When you become a parent, you quickly realize that your new goal in life is to make sure that your children’s lives are full of new experiences that lead them to discover their best selves. For Liz Huber, CAST Water Safety Foundation Founder & Director, her children’s experience with self-rescue lessons led her to pursue her own path of water safety education by becoming a certified ISR self-rescue instructor and founding the CAST Water Safety Foundation.

As an educator with a background in business and philanthropy, Liz saw an opportunity for each of her passions to be fused together for an even greater purpose.

“Self-rescue swim lessons were the most empowering thing that ever happened to our family. I wanted to share that empowerment with others.”

We are thrilled to celebrate Liz Huber as our Water Safety Champion of the Month this May!

Liz’s Introduction to the Aquatics Industry

Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago and having a pool in her backyard made Liz a strong swimmer by the time she was 4 years old. As a parent today, she knew teaching children to swim at an early age would make them safer, and set a goal for her own children to learn by the age of 3.

With this goal in mind, she went on her search but struggled to find a local swim program that was highly respected while providing the result of teaching kids under 5 to be competent in the water.

Finally, while on vacation, she came across a family that told her about ISR self-rescue lessons, and to Liz, this was the perfect fit for safeguarding her water-loving babies.

She enrolled her daughters in ISR self-rescue lessons and noticed a significant difference in their overall quality of life as a result. Her children slept better, ate better, had better interpersonal relationships, and hit long-awaited physical milestones, leaving them with a deep sense of empowerment.

On that basis alone, Liz realized the lessons were worth it. However, it wasn’t until she became a licensed instructor at her daughter’s swim school that she understood the most critical piece of water competency—drowning prevention.

As an instructor, she had the opportunity to speak to another mom, Katie Trent, whom she met while her daughter was in self-rescue lessons. Unfortunately, Liz soon discovered she had lost her daughter in a tragic drowning accident.

A simple statement from Katie would echo in Liz’s heart for years to come, “How did you learn about these lessons before losing a child? The only reason I’m here is because my daughter is gone.”

A Moment Becomes an Opportunity

No one should have to experience the gravity of such a loss, so Liz took it upon herself to learn everything she could about safer swimming initiatives during the pandemic. Realizing how much education goes into keeping a child under five safe around water, she began to craft a new approach to water safety education.

As a former elementary educator, she understood that in any case (development, education, emotional intelligence, etc.), benchmarks change with age. This understanding led her to make the following decision: CAST would customize their lessons to how a child under 5 learns while tracking the data of the biggest risk factors for their age group.

The CAST Water Safety Foundation facilitates swim safety education. Their approach to water competency heavily focuses on education surrounding water, the risks, the benefits of competency, and the importance of guardian involvement in the learning process.

The children’s caretakers are actively involved in learning strategies for routines when entering the water, respect for water, and being in the water with your child. Caretaker involvement can help to ensure children are safe and skilled in aquatic environments, which can lead to a lifelong love of swimming and water-based activities. Additionally, guardians can also learn about the benefits of swimming for physical and mental health.

Self-rescue lessons are given to each child one-on-one at 10-minute weekly intervals. Program duration is up to 6 weeks or until instructors determine the child is “safe and skilled,” after which lessons are less frequent and done for maintenance.

They partner with a number of organizations and foundations, such as the 4 ANNA Foundation, the Live Like Jake Foundation, and Levi’s Legacy, bringing education and empowerment to families with the overall goal of creating “safer swimmers sooner.”

CAST-ing a Vision for the Future

Growth and expansion are on the horizon for this small but mighty organization, which just reached its 500th swim scholarship, which helps minimize the cost of self-rescue lessons. They anticipate future growth by adding more scholarship partners with trusted and effective instructors who desire to give back and provide education to swim families.

Currently, they are partnered with 12 self-rescue swim instructors in the Chicago suburbs and cities throughout the U.S. The CAST team hopes to keep growing scholarship providers and further water safety education for families nationwide.

Liz’s biggest hope is that all swim schools, swim lesson providers, and advocates can unite and spread awareness under a common goal: customized education and instruction which will best safeguard children under five.

CAST remains a community pillar for educating parents of children under 5 on water safety and drowning prevention. In the future, they hope to partner with others that have the same mission but are focused on older children and teens, as well as organizations that are committed to

Water safety is a critical topic that cannot be overlooked, and the work of organizations like CAST Water Safety Foundation is an important part of initiatives that aim to save lives.

Thank You For Being A Water Safety Champion!

Liz Huber is a true Water Safety Champion who works tirelessly to educate people on water safety and drowning prevention initiatives. Her dedication and passion for water competency are an inspiration to us all to take the necessary precautions and make water activities safer for everyone.

Thank you for being a Water Safety Champion, Liz Huber!

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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The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ 2023

Are you ready to dive into water safety? Look no further than the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™. This annual event brings together swimmers of all ages and skill levels for one important cause: drowning prevention. This incredible event, held across multiple cities, countries and continents, is more than just a fun day at the pool. It’s an opportunity to spread awareness about water safety and teach life-saving skills that can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ has become a global movement, with over 50,000 participants each year. From beginners to seasoned pros, everyone is encouraged to participate in this incredible event highlighting the importance of swim lessons and drowning prevention education.

The 2023 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ event (WLSL), will take place on Thursday, June 22. 

Here are some facts to get ready for this important event:

  • Millions of children missed the opportunity to participate in formal swimming lessons in the past couple of years due to the pandemic, creating an urgent need for water safety training and swim lessons this summer. TEAM WLSL™ is getting back on deck to send the message Swimming Lessons Save Lives™ to help prevent childhood drowning and teach families how to Be Water Aware.  
  • The 2023 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson will offer hundreds of aquatic centers, swim schools, and waterparks the chance to focus on the urgency of getting kids in the water and help raise awareness about drowning and the fact that swimming is a vital life-saving skill that every child should learn.
  • What is exciting about the WLSL event is that many organizations and individual aquatic facilities are coming together to make it happen. The WLSL helps capture all our passion for this critical issue as individuals and focuses all that energy on one message for one day.
  • Drowning is a public health crisis. In the U.S., it’s the leading cause of accidental death for kids ages 1-4 and the second leading cause for kids 14 and under. Yet, a large percentage of adults don’t recognize this risk or provide the right layers of protection to prevent drowning.
  • Internationally, the World Health Organization estimates drowning is one of the top five causes of death for people ages 1-14 in 48 of the 85 countries it monitors around the globe. Swimming is a vital life-saving skill. 
  • According to a 2020 research study conducted by the American Red Cross, more than half (54%) of U.S. kids ages 4-17 are not able to perform the basic water safety skills that can save their life.
  • More fatal and non-fatal drowning incidents occur in the U.S. during June than in any other month.
  • Nearly 80% of drowning victims are male. Also, African-American children age 5 to 19 drown at rates 5.5 times higher than Caucasian children. This disparity is greatest among those 11-12 years where African Americans drown in swimming pools at rates ten times those of Caucasians.
  • Drowning is predictable, incredibly fast and quiet: Most children who drown are out of sight for less than 5 minutes. Drowning can occur in as little as two minutes and victims do not signal for help. In addition, 70% of drownings happen during non-swim times.
  • Research shows participation in formal swimming lessons by kids ages 1-4 can significantly reduce the risk of drowning, yet many children still do not participate in formal water safety training or swimming lessons.
  • The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ was created in 2010 as a platform to support public education about safer water practices and to build awareness about the critical importance of teaching children to swim to help prevent drowning. 
  • Since its inception, more than 320,000 children and adults have participated in life-saving WLSL lessons, generating more than two BILLION media impressions about the vital importance of learning to swim. 
  • TEAM WLSL™ has set five multi-venue and three single venue Guinness® World Records since the program began in 2010.

TEAM WLSL™ is on a mission to make sure every parent understands the critical importance of teaching kids to swim and how to Be Water Aware to prevent drowning.

Show your support by sharing this important message.

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Download Your Residential Pool Rules Sign!

Residential pool signs main blog image

If you’ve ever been to a public or private pool, you’ve likely seen pool rules sign posted
somewhere in the area. Pool rule signs serve an important purpose in ensuring the safety
and enjoyment of everyone who uses the pool, especially in a backyard setting.

They outline important rules and regulations that swimmers need to follow to prevent
accidents and injuries. Whether you’re a pool owner or just a regular swimmer,
understanding these rules is essential to having a fun and safe time in and around the pool.

Download Free Pool Rules Signs

Pool Rules

  1. No diving
  2. Use the 5 Layers of Protection
    • Barriers And Alarms
    • Supervision
    • Water Competency
    • Life Jackets
    • Emergency Preparation
  3. Lock all gates and remove ladders & pool toys
  4. Learn CPR With rescue breaths
  5. Have water rescue devices nearby

In case of an emergency, call 911, and don’t forget to add your home address to your pool

rules sign after printing.

Match Your Sign To Your Style!

Everyone’s style is different, especially with upcoming summer pool parties. Knowing this,
we created three different style options to match your party theme or home aesthetic!

  1. Farmhouse – if you’re inspired by rustic charm that is both cozy and stylish.
  2. Modern – if you’re inspired by clean geometry and a neutral palette.
  3. Beachy – if you’re inspired by tropical paradise and bold bright colors.

Recommended printing dimensions are 8.5 in x 11 in. Take it to your local printer to have it printed on aluminum or metal! Have fun with it, but be sure that the pool rules are visible from any place in and around the pool.

Water Safety is a Lifelong Endeavor

If you own or operate a pool, it’s imperative that you have a pool rules sign posted
somewhere that is easy to read and highly visible. Our pool rules signs are designed to keep
water safety accessible to everyone and establish that you take water safety precautions
seriously in your home.

Download and share with friends or others in your community!

Download Free Pool Rules Signs

We’d love to see your signs in action! Snap a picture of your pool rules sign and tag

us on our social media @drowningalliance.

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Celebrating National Water Safety Month with NDPA

Water Safety Month Main Blog image

Looking forward to upcoming vacations, time off, or fun in the sun? Don’t forget that this time of year is especially important to help raise awareness about the importance of water safety and drowning prevention! 

Drowning can happen quickly and when your guard is down, so whether you’re planning on going to the beach, the pool, or will be enjoying other water activities, it’s crucial to understand the risks and take the necessary precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

What is Water Safety Month?

National Water Safety Month is an annual awareness campaign coordinated by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance with support from the American Red Cross, National Drowning Prevention Alliance, National Recreation and Park Association, and World Waterpark Association.

Swim activity increases during the month of May, with many home and community pools now in regular use, camps welcoming new recruits, and beaches flooded with tourists and locals alike. 

Knowing this, the National Recreation and Park Association, along with the  World Waterpark Association (WWA), determined that more needed to be done in order to raise awareness about water safety.

What began as an annual week of water safety awareness flourished into a now month-long initiative aimed at reducing the amount of drowning tragedies across the globe. 

Swimming group with goggles for water safety month

Why Is Water Safety Month Important?

Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death worldwide. It happens quickly and silently and is never what you think. Even non-fatal accidents can have devastating long-term effects. 

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), every year in the United States alone, there are an estimated 4,000 fatal accidental drownings (about 11 drowning deaths per day) and 8,000 non-fatal drownings (about 22 non-fatal drownings per day).

Our goal in reducing the number of drownings every year requires comprehensive education about water safety and drowning prevention shared by everyone. By partnering with other organizations, we have the opportunity to spread the message of drowning prevention on a much larger scale. Drowning can happen to anyone, and it takes awareness and support from all of us to prevent a tragedy. 

Diverse kids swimming for water safety month

5 Ways You Can Practice Water Safety This May

This month is dedicated to educating families and individuals on how to stay safe in and around water. There are so many ways to advocate for water safety, so we’ve narrowed it down! 

Here are 5 ways to celebrate water safety in your community:

  1. Encourage others to be Water Safety Champions!
    • Water Safety Champions are people dedicated to finding solutions and advocating for safe play and necessary precautions in and around water. By signing up, you can access exclusive free downloads, social content, printables, and other free resources in your Water Safety Champion toolkit.
  1. Educate your friends and family about water safety and drowning:
    • Learn water safety and drowning misnomers: Terms such as ‘dry,’ ‘wet,’ ‘near,’ ‘silent,’ and ‘secondary’ drowning are all misnomers that are commonly used in the media and should not be used when speaking of drowning incidents.
    • Know what drowning looks like: The body is vertical, with the head instinctively tilted back as the victim tries to keep the airways clear of water. Victims typically face shore in open waters like lakes, rivers, or beaches. There are signs of movement but no signs of progress in the water. Drowning is also silent, with the victim not able to call out for help. 70% of toddler drownings happen during non-swim times. 
  1. Learn and Practice the 5 Layers of Protection:
    • Barriers & Alarms
    • Supervision
    • Water Competency
    • Life Jackets
    • Emergency Preparation
  1. Use and share NDPAs resources:
    • Use our free water safety resources, like books, coloring pages, flashcards, pool signs, and blogs to help keep water safety at the top of your family’s mind this summer. 
  1. Sign the “End The Misinformation” letter:
    • Floatation devices can be a tricky subject, and the language used to market and advertise flotation devices is misleading and can cost a life. Read and sign the “End the Misinformation” letter to help stop the spread of misinformation regarding children’s flotation devices.

While these are just a few ways for you and your community to get involved with education and advocacy for water safety month, there are still so many more, and we’ve made it even easier with our toolkit! 

Water Safety Season Toolkit

Wondering how to encourage Water Safety awareness in your organization or community?

We’ve created the Water Safety Season Toolkit to make it easy for you to spread the word about water safety and drowning prevention!

Our Water Safety Season Toolkit is the ultimate resource for getting the word out about water safety and drowning prevention, especially during the busiest recreational water activity months of the year.

This free toolkit includes a variety of resources that individuals, businesses, and coalitions can easily use to increase awareness of water safety and share the 5 Layers of Protection with ease. 

The toolkit Includes the following resources: 

  • Full summer social media campaign complete with graphics, animations, and videos with sample copy, hashtag strategies, and posting dates. 
  • Social frames that can be used on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
  • A digital asset library that includes posters, infographics, checklists, and our Water Watcher Card. 
  • Sample Blogs ready to post to your site and other digital platforms that cover basic and simple water safety information.
  • NDPA’s Press and Media Guide is designed to provide you with tips and tricks for working with your local media and critical water safety information that can be shared with the media and the general public.
  • A sample government proclamation to help your community officially recognize water safety month and celebrate it in your communities.
  • An invitation to all users to join the NDPA Water Warrior Facebook Group–a private Facebook group for water safety advocates and professionals to connect, share, collaborate, and learn. The group currently has close to 1,600 members. 

You can access our toolkit at https://ndpa.org/toolkit/.

With the right education and training, we are steps closer to keeping our communities and families safe. Every step in the direction of advocating water safety is a step towards saving countless lives. This month, take some time to sit with your family and friends and empower them to take action in keeping everyone, especially your little ones, safe this summer and all year long! 

Be sure to follow the NDPA on our social media channels to follow along with our celebrations for National Water Safety Month @drownalliance.

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April 2023 Water Safety Champion of the Month: Trish Miller

Trish Miller of SwemKids

Often, some of our most painful stories become our greatest triumphs. Trish Miller, the founder of SwemKids, took a terrifying near-drowning experience and turned it into a life-changing program for children in communities of color. 

As she got older and progressed in her career in public health, Trish determined that swim classes should be more accessible to children in the Black community who may not otherwise have the opportunity to gain these life-saving skills. 

We are thrilled to celebrate Trish Miller as our Water Safety Champion of the Month this April!

The Moment That Changed Trish Miller’s Life

Though she grew up in proximity to a beach, Trish Miller hadn’t actually been to one until she was 16 years old. She admits she was not exposed to water safety until later in elementary school when her class was taken to the local pool for 2 weeks of swimming instruction.  

Trish states, “I was the only black child in class, and the instructors could not understand why I was so afraid of the water.” 

Due to cultural differences and presuppositions, it was difficult for her to engage in the instruction of swimming. It was her first time in a pool that size, and she was too afraid to continue. The instructors didn’t pressure her and seemed to be disconnected from her experience as a young black girl. 

When she went to college, things began to take a turn. Some friends had invited her to go swimming, promising they’d teach her. After spending some time in the water, Trish’s friends encouraged her to jump into the deeper end of the pool. 

She felt confident enough in her ability to swim and walked to the edge of the pool that read 12ft. She jumped in and quickly realized she was not ready. 

In a moment of panic, she began to swallow water and nearly drowned before she was pulled out by one of her friends. 

This was a formative experience for her and shaped her entire future, Trish states, “It became my mission to do something about these devastating statistics because I almost became one. That is how SwemKids was born.”

Learning the Tragic Drowning Statistics for People of Color

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the drowning death rates for Black people are 1.5 times higher than the death rates for White people. The disparities are highest among Black children ages 5-9, (rates 2.6 times higher) and ages 10-14 (rates 3.6 times higher). 

“As I continued to progress in my career, I started to become aware that my story was not unique, that nearly 70% of Black people do not know how to swim well”, states Miller. 

Once she started her work in public health, Trish discovered that there are a lot of historical generalizations that led to her family’s mindset. She felt that representation needed to change and communities of color needed to be shown as professionals in the water. 

Trish states, “There needed to be intentionality behind showing them in the water in order to adjust beliefs around water safety. You are never too old to learn how to swim, in fact, I swam my first lap in 2019 at just over 40 years old.”

Introducing The Freedom of Swimming through SwemKids

With the goal to educate and empower the black community to nurture a healthy relationship with water, Trish began her mission, and in 2017, SwemKids was born. “It’s actually spelled S-W-E-M. Which is an ode to Afrikaans, that dialect, to change that dynamic.” 

SwemKids is a non-profit program that teaches introductory swimming lessons and water safety skills to communities that experience the highest rates of drownings. Instructors in the SwemKids facility are diverse aquatics professionals from the communities they serve.

“We can only do this work by partnering with people in our community,” states Trish Miller. 

Trish and her organization work hard to partner with local school districts and offer scholarships to schools and groups dedicated to empowering people of color.  

Some notable organizations that Swemkids have partnered with include the Boys and Girls Club of America, 100 Black Men of America, and Mocha Moms Inc.

“We save lives. We are welcoming people to a space that they historically have been excluded from. We celebrate every first lap and every big jump. We are welcoming people back to the freedom and the love of water.” 

Thank You For Making A Difference in Water Safety

Trish Miller is truly a trailblazer in the world of water safety education. Her dedication to the cause and her community has made a lasting impact, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. 

The NDPA is honored to present this accolade for Trish’s passion and dedication to making water safety more accessible to underrepresented communities. 

Thank you for being a Water Safety Champion, Trish Miller!

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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Emergency Preparation By Using Drowning CPR with Rescue Breaths

CPR with rescue breaths main blog image

When an emergency occurs, we’re often left scrambling and grasping at solutions with very little time for preparation or action. But, in the case of water safety, learning drowning CPR can mean the difference between life and death. 

CPR with rescue breaths, is an important skill to learn because drowning is considered a hypoxic event – meaning the lack of oxygen affects all of the organs in the body.  

Knowing emergency procedures, like drowning CPR, is critical because they can triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest.

drowning cpr practicing

What is Drowning CPR?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is the act of repeated chest compressions of the chest in an attempt to restore or maintain blood circulation in the body of someone who has gone into cardiac arrest. 

Rescue breathing is the process of blowing air into someone’s mouth who has stopped breathing to ensure that they stay oxygenated to further prevent the damage of cardiac arrest.

These two practices used together are known as drowning CPR. When used immediately, these practices have proven to be effective in reducing the likelihood of death by drowning or asphyxiation (loss of oxygen flow to the body).

Why Do We Use Drowning CPR?

Performing CPR with rescue breaths on a drowning victim is essential to maintaining blood flow and oxygenation to the brain.

In a hypoxic event, like drowning, the flow of oxygen supplied to the brain is slowed or stopped, resulting in eventual respiratory and cardiac arrest. 

According to the Health & Safety Institute, room air has an oxygen level of about 21%. Exhaled air has an oxygen level of about 16-17%, which is enough to support life in a critical emergency.

When you combine rescue breaths with chest compressions, you increase the oxygen level in the victim’s blood and are able to simulate respiration with a life-sustaining amount of breathed oxygen, thus saving their organs.


Drowning CPR is an integral part of Emergency Preparation as a layer of protection and, when used properly, can be a life-saving action.

drowning cpr class

How and When To Perform Drowning CPR:

First and foremost, if you ever encounter a victim who is not breathing, ALWAYS call 911 or have someone at the scene do so before trying to perform drowning CPR.

The underlying principles of CPR remain the same. Still, the amount of force and hand use varies depending on the victim’s age. 

The following steps are as advised by the American Red Cross. If you are ever in a position where you must perform drowning CPR, always remember that proper training and certification for CPR must be refreshed every 1-2 years, especially if there are recent changes in recommendations from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. 

For Adults: 

  1. Immediately call 911
  2. Check for responsiveness using the Shout-Tap-Shout.
    1. Shout to get a response, tap on the shoulder (or bottom of the foot for babies),  shout again.
  3. Place the victim on their back on a firm and flat surface.
  4. Place two hands centered on the chest, your shoulders directly over your hands, and give 30 chest compressions at a depth of 2 inches. Allow their chest to return to normal after each compression.
  5. Open the victim’s airway using the head-tilt technique. Pinch the nose shut, take a normal breath, and make a complete seal over the person’s mouth with your mouth or a rescue mask (if available).
  6. Ensure each breath lasts about 1 second and you see the victim’s chest rise. Allow air to exit before administering the next breath.
  7. Do not stop until help arrives or until you notice an obvious sign of life.

When a trained professional arrives, clear a pathway and find a first responder to relay any known information about the drowning event to them.  

For Children and Infants :

  • If performing drowning CPR on an infant, use two thumbs side by side at the center of the baby’s chest. Alternatively, you can use two fingers placed parallel to the chest in the center of the chest, performing compressions to a depth of 1 1/2 inches.
  • Drowning CPR is vital to the survival of infants and children as their oxygen levels immediately decrease in cardiac arrest due to the lack of oxygen flow. 

According to the Health & Safety Institute, infants and children are more likely to suffer from asphyxiation due to a constriction in the airway, making rescue breaths even more essential. 

If you are reluctant or unable to perform rescue breaths, hands-only CPR is better than no CPR.

Drowning CPR Can Save Lives

CPR training is essential for medical professionals, first responders, and anyone who wants to be prepared to respond to an emergency like a drowning incident. Anyone living in a home with a pool or frequently around water should become CPR certified, focusing on CPR with rescue breaths.

Many organizations require all babysitters, teachers, and caregivers to have current CPR training and certification. In groups, it is recommended that at least one person should know CPR or have undergone CPR training.  

Proper training and certification should be refreshed every 1-2 years or more frequently if there have been recent changes in recommendations.

drowning cpr swimming class

To find a CPR and First Aid class near you, check with your local hospital, fire department, or use the American Heart Association or American Red Cross Websites. 

Drowning CPR is a life-saving technique that, when done properly, can significantly increase the rate of survival for a drowning victim or someone suffering from asphyxiation. 

It is an important part of emergency preparation as a layer of protection Though the technique varies across age ranges, the underlying fundamentals of the practice remain the same. 

Timing is of the utmost importance. If you are not trained in CPR with rescue breaths, consider taking a class to learn these life-saving skills.

To learn more about emergency preparation techniques for drowning prevention, visit ndpa.org.

10 Do’s and 10 Don’ts of Pool Fencing

pool fencing blog cover

Swimming pools can be a great source of fun and entertainment for families, but it is important to observe pool safety protocols and implement the five layers of protection. Pool fencing is an essential safety measure for any swimming pool, whether it’s a residential or a commercial pool. 

The primary purpose of pool fencing is to prevent accidental drowning, particularly for young children at high risk of drowning in swimming pools. These barriers restrict access to the water, preventing kids and pets from accidents during non-swim times. However, pool fencing also has other benefits, such as enhancing the appearance of the pool area and increasing property value.

A critical part of this is making sure that your pool has the proper fencing to prevent accidents. To help you stay safe and informed, this article will provide an overview of the key do’s and don’ts when it comes to pool fencing. It will discuss the types of materials available, installation considerations, and other important safety elements.

backyard swimming pool with fence

The Do’s of Pool Fencing:

  1. Do choose a fence that meets standards and codes.

All pool fences should comply with ASTM-F1908 standard for residential outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas. These include the height, materials, and gate requirements. Unfortunately, non-compliance can result in hefty fines in some locations, so please make sure you choose a fence that meets the standards established in your local area.

  1. Do ensure the fence is at least 4 feet high.

The height of the fence is a critical factor in preventing young children from climbing over it. The minimum height requirement for a pool fence is 4 feet.

  1. Do use self-closing and self-latching elements.

Pool gates should close and latch automatically to ensure the pool is always secure. Choose high-quality self-closing hinges and self-latching locks for your pool gate. An extra tip: make sure the gate always swings away from the pool area.

  1. Do maintain the fence regularly. 

Regular maintenance ensures that the fence remains in good condition and can function as a barrier effectively. Check for any damage, wear and tear, or signs of corrosion, and fix them promptly. For the fence to work properly, the gate, locking mechanism, and fence must all work together as a total system.

  1. Do consider the materials: 

The materials used for the fence can affect its durability, maintenance requirements, and overall appearance. Choose materials that are durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing.

  1. Do keep the pool fence clear of any objects.

Objects such as chairs or toys can be used as a climbing aid for children to get over the fence. Keep the pool fence area clear of any objects that could potentially be used as a climbing aid.

  1. Do ensure the fence is installed by a professional.

Installing a pool fence can be complicated, and a professional installer can ensure that the fence meets the standards and is installed correctly. Use the NDPA and Fence Group app if you need help getting started.

  1. Do consider adding additional safety measures.

While a pool fence is an effective safety barrier, adding additional safety measures such as pool covers or alarms can provide extra protection for your family and visitors.

  1. Do ensure the gate is locked when not in use.

Keep your pool gate locked at all times. Keeping your pool gate locked when not in use can prevent unauthorized access to the pool area, reducing the risk of accidental drowning.

  1. Do educate children about pool safety.

Teaching children about pool safety and the importance of the pool fence can help prevent accidents. Ensure children understand the pool rules and know to never go near the water without adult supervision.

While pool fencing can be an effective barrier, it’s essential to use it correctly. Fences, barriers, and alarms are only 1 of the 5 layers of protection.

fenced swimming pool

The Don’ts:

  1. Don’t leave gaps in your pool fence

One of the most significant don’ts of pool fencing is leaving gaps in the fence. These gaps can be tempting for children to crawl through, and they can also allow pets to access the pool area. Ensure your fence is completely secure and has no gaps or holes that small children or pets could crawl through.

  1. Don’t forget to put away toys and furniture

Simply having a fence around a swimming pool does not provide complete protection for young children, who may find ways to climb over the barrier. Take the necessary steps to ensure that any objects that could help them climb over the pool fencing (such as toys, steps or furniture) are kept away from the pool area, particularly when not in use.

  1. Don’t use a fence that is too short

Your pool fence should be at least 4 feet high. Using a fence that is too short can compromise the safety of your pool area, making it easy for children to climb over or pets to jump over.

  1. Don’t use a fence with horizontal bars

While horizontal bar fences may look attractive, they can be a safety hazard. Children can use the bars as footholds to climb over the fence, and pets can also use them to jump over. It’s best to use a fence with vertical bars or mesh to prevent climbing.

  1. Don’t forget to maintain your pool fence

A pool fence is only effective if it’s well-maintained. Regularly check your fence for any damage or wear and tear, and repair any issues promptly. Also, keep the area around the fence clear to prevent anyone from using objects to climb over.

  1. Don’t use a fence with a low-quality lock

Your pool gate’s lock is essential to its safety. A low-quality lock can be easily bypassed, allowing unauthorized access to the pool area. Invest in a high-quality lock that can’t be easily picked or tampered with.

  1. Don’t use a fence that doesn’t comply with regulations

Each area may have specific regulations for pool fencing. Make sure that your fence complies with these regulations to ensure that it’s effective in keeping your pool area safe.

  1. Don’t rely on pool covers instead of a fence

Pool covers are not a substitute for a fence. They can be easily removed, and they don’t provide a physical barrier that can prevent children or pets from accessing the pool area. Always use a fence in conjunction with a pool cover for maximum safety.

  1. Don’t use a fence that is too close to the pool

Your fence should be at least 4 ft away from the pool’s edge. This distance helps prevent someone from falling into the pool while trying to climb the fence. It also provides space for maintenance and repairs without disturbing the pool area.

  1. Don’t forget to supervise children

Finally, while a pool fence can be an effective barrier, it’s important to remember that it’s not foolproof. Always supervise children when they’re near the pool, even if a fence is in place. It only takes a few seconds for an accident to happen, so never leave children unattended near the pool.

Pool fencing is a crucial safety measure that can save lives. By following the do’s and don’ts of pool fencing as a barrier, you can ensure your pool area is safe and enjoyable for everyone. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.

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Thursday Pools Advocates for Drowning Prevention with Water Safety Features and Donation

thursday-pools

NDPA recently received an incredible donation from Thursday Pools, an innovating fiberglass company from Fortville, IN, dedicated to bringing cutting-edge innovations to the pool world. We are so grateful that Thursday Pools has dedicated hours of hard work and advocacy to help NDPA’s mission to prevent the tragedies of drowning, resulting in a donation of $10,000!

In total, Thursday Pools and its dealers have donated $15,700!

Thursday Pools is one of the largest builders of fiberglass pools in the country, and we are beyond excited that they made such a commitment to aid our mission to prevent childhood drowning and aquatic injuries. 

Thursday-Pools-story

About Thursday Pools

Forget about Friday! With Thursday Pools, a memorable weekend begins early,” is the tagline for this remarkable company. Their goal is to facilitate time with family and friends while ensuring everyone’s safety.

Thursday Pools designs and manufactures hand-crafted fiberglass pool shells with the highest standards and craftsmanship. With their commitment to high standards of fiberglass pools, we are honored that they chose to support our mission to prevent tragedy around water.

Life around water should delight families, and Thursday Pools goes above and beyond to captivate their customers while keeping them safe.

Thursday Pools makes artfully crafted, durable fiberglass pools and innovative products. They pride themselves on empowering their customers to make a lifetime of remarkable moments with family and friends. At NDPA strive for the same with our effort to keep families safe by implementing water safety using the 5 layers of protection.

Thursday Pools is reshaping the pool industry with classic designs, cascading multi-level pools, and their one-of-a-kind, walk-in beach entry feature. Some of the pools they manufacture feature water safety features.

thursday-pools-beach-feature

Several pool options have multiple stairs and a safety ledge on each side. With more help and support from companies like Thursday Pools, NDPA can do more for drowning prevention and water safety in the United States. 

Thank You For Your Support, Thursday Pools!

Executive Director Dr. Adam Katchmarchi states, “This is simply incredible, and I’m beyond words. To see a company and its dealers support the importance of drowning prevention warms my heart.” 

Drowning is the single leading cause of death for children 1-4. 

With Thursday Pools’ donation, we are one step closer to changing the numbers and providing more education to pool owners.

Tag Archive for: drowning prevention

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