for Drowning Safety at Camps, and Childcare Media Talking Points

11/25/2024

General Safety

1. Constant Adult Supervision:

  • Always have an adult assigned to oversee children when they are near water.

  • Maintain a ratio of one adult per group of children, keeping them within arm’s reach.

2. Swim Lessons:

  • Enroll children in swim lessons with certified instructors from recognized organizations such as the Red Cross, YMCA, or U.S. Lifesaving Association.

  • - By age 4 or developmentally ready, children should be taught essential survival skills including:

  • - Stepping or jumping into water and returning to the surface.

  • - Turning in the water to orient towards safety.

  • - Floating or treading water.

  • - Combining breathing with forward movement.

  • - Exiting the water safely.

3. CPR Training:

  • Ensure that camp staff and facility managers are trained in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and emergency response.

Pool Safety

1. Fencing and Gates:

  • Pools should have 4-sided fencing at least 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.

2. Anti-Entrapment Measures:

  • Public pools must comply with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act, having anti-entrapment drain covers. Residential pools should also meet these standards for safety.

3. Portable Pools:

  • -Smaller portable pools should be emptied and turned over after use to prevent accidents.

Open Water Safety

1. Awareness and Education:

  • Teach children that open water is different from pools due to visibility, currents, undertow, temperature, and uneven footing.

2. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs):

  • Non-swimmers and anyone in boats or watercraft should wear Coast Guard-approved PFDs.

  • Choose PFDs based on the specific water activity.

3. Designated Swimming Areas:

  • Swim in designated areas with lifeguards present.

  • Avoid swimming if no lifeguard is on duty and heed safety signage.

4. Hazards Awareness:

  • Educate children on potential hazards like rocks, vegetation, sudden drop-offs, strong currents, and cold-water temperatures.

5. Weather and Water Temperature:

  • Monitor weather forecasts and avoid water activities during thunderstorms.

  • Be aware of cold-water risks, which can lower body temperature and impair swimming ability. Use lifejackets in cold water.

6. Emergency Preparedness:

  • Keep a phone nearby for emergency services.

  • Post written plans and emergency contact information, including 911 procedures.

References:

  • Safe Kids Worldwide: [safekids.org](https://www.safekids.org) Offers resources on water safety and drowning prevention.

  • American Academy of Pediatrics: [healthychildren.org](https://www.healthychildren.org) Provides guidelines and advice on child health and safety, including water safety.

  • National Drowning Prevention Alliance: [ndpa.org](https://ndpa.org) Focuses on drowning prevention through advocacy, research, and education.

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): [cdc.gov](https://www.cdc.gov) Offers comprehensive data and safety tips on drowning prevention.