Summer in Orange County means sunshine, swimming, and lots of family fun. Whether it’s a day at the beach, a splash in the backyard pool, or a trip to the local community pool, there’s no shortage of water activities to enjoy. But, with all that fun comes a serious reminder: where there’s water, there’s also risk.
Drowning is the leading cause of death for kids ages 1–4 years.
Most drownings happen in the summer and for young children, drownings are most likely to occur in pools. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly—even with adults nearby. The good news is that drowning is preventable. A few simple steps can keep your child safe this summer.
Learn the A, B, Cs of Water Safety!
- A is for Active Adult Supervision
Always keep your eyes on your child when they’re near water. No phones, no distractions. It only takes a few seconds for a child to slip under the water. If a child is missing, always check the water first. - B is for Barriers around Pools and Spas
Install fences with self-closing, self-latching gates around your pool and/or spa. Barriers help keep kids from getting into the water when you’re not looking. - C is for Classes
Sign your child up for swim lessons. Even toddlers can start learning basic skills like back-floating and swimming to the pool edge. Parents should also take a CPR class and learn what to do in an emergency.
Join a Free Water Safety Event This Summer
Looking for a fun way to teach your kids water safety? This summer, the OC Drowning Prevention Coalition and other community partners will be hosting water events throughout Orange County – and you’re invited! Water events will be hosted in Irvine, Orange, San Clemente, and Santa Ana.
These free events are packed with activities that help kids and parents learn together. Families will rotate through fun skill-building stations, both poolside and in the water. Activities include:
- How to safely rescue someone in the water
- How to fit a life vest
- How to back-float and safely swim to the pool edge
- How to do CPR
- How to recognize a child’s strengths and challenges in the water, and more!
Don’t forget to wear your swimsuit! In the pool you will learn valuable hands-on skills that could save a life. Plus, there’s free swim time after the safety lessons!
See free water safety skills training dates: Safer Swim Flyer
Make Safety Part of Your Summer Fun
Water play is one of the best parts of summer. By learning the A, B, Cs of water safety and participating in these interactive events, you will help your family build skills that last a lifetime.
Let’s make it a safe, splash-filled summer!
For more water safety tips, see:
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Recommendations on Drowning Prevention
- HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Swim Lesson for Children English | Spanish
- Orange County Fire Authority: Water Safety
