A Raise Foundation Initiative

Water Safety

Drowning consistently remains the leading cause of death for children 1-4 years of age, and among the top-five leading causes for those under the age of 18 years, both in Orange County and California. Each year, near drowning incidents also result in life-long disabilities.

About the Initiative

Drowning consistently remains the leading cause of death for children 1-4 years of age, and among the top-five leading causes for those under the age of 18 years, both in Orange County and California. Each year, near drowning incidents also result in life-long disabilities.

Drowning is preventable. Young children are more at risk and can drown in any body of water, including a bucket, bathtub, sink, pool or spa.

Drowning Prevention is most effective with a “layers of protection” approach:

·      Never leave a child alone near water, even for a few seconds.

·      A supervising adult should be close enough to touch the child under 4 years old near water.

·      Keep a constant adult eye on young children of all ages.

·      All collections of water are dangerous for infants and toddlers, including bathtubs, buckets, toilets, ponds, spas, swimming pools, and natural water sites.

·      Swimming pools should have fences, alarms, and drains that meet regulations.

·      Pool gates should be self-latching, opening outward, with the latch out-of-reach for a child.

·      Keep reaching and throwing aids near a swimming pool.

·      All children should wear a personal floatation device while playing near bodies of water.

·      Parents and child caregivers should know how to perform rescue techniques and strategies to respond in an emergency.

·      If a child is missing, check the pool first.

For more information on helpful tips and other ways that you can prevent drowning, visit Drowning Prevention OC.

Initiative Partners:

Orange County Drowning Prevention Task Force

Orange County Fire Authority

Fliers and Links: