Drowning Prevention Tips and Water Safety

Overview

Drowning is a major public health concern and a leading cause of unintentional injury death among young children, particularly those ages 1–4. It can occur quickly and often silently, and it can happen to anyone whenever there is access to water. Each year in the United States, an estimated 4,000 people die from unintentional drowning—an average of 11 deaths every single day. Even more people experience non-fatal drownings, with about 22 incidents daily. While drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages 1 to 4, it is also a significant risk for people with certain medical conditions, including those on the autism spectrum, who are nearly 40 times more likely to die from drowning compared to the general population. For children ages 5 to 14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death, right after motor vehicle crashes.

Where and How Drowning Happens

The risk and location of drowning changes with age:

• Infants under 1 year are most at risk at home, often in bathtubs.
• Children under 5 years old most commonly drown in home pools or hot tubs, with 87% of these incidents happening in pools owned by family, friends, or relatives. Bathtubs are the second most common site for young children, but other household water hazards—including buckets, bath seats, wells, cisterns, septic tanks, decorative ponds, and even toilets—can also pose risks.
• Children and teens ages 5 to 17 are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, and rivers.

Drowning can happen in just seconds, in as little as an inch or two of water, and often occurs when adults are nearby but distracted. Awareness of the risks and consistent use of multiple layers of protection are key to keeping everyone safe around water. Effective prevention relies on combining multiple, evidence-based safety measures rather than depending on a single strategy.

How Many People Are Affected?

Each year in the United States, around 4,000 people lose their lives to unintentional drowning—averaging about 11 deaths every single day. But it’s not just fatalities we need to worry about. Non-fatal drowning incidents occur even more frequently, impacting approximately 8,000 people annually. That means roughly 22 individuals experience a non-fatal drowning daily, often resulting in lasting physical or neurological effects. These numbers highlight why consistent water safety measures are so essential for everyone, regardless of swimming ability or age.

What Is Drowning?

Drowning is the process of experiencing breathing impairment from submersion or immersion in liquid. It is not always fatal. Non-fatal drowning can still cause serious harm, including long-term complications such as brain injury due to lack of oxygen.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

Evidence shows increased drowning risk among:

• Young children, especially ages 1–4
• People with certain medical conditions, including seizure disorders, heart conditions, and developmental conditions such as autism

Children and adults with autism are at particularly high risk—drowning is the leading cause of death for individuals with autism, and people with autism spectrum disorder are nearly 40 times more likely to die from drowning compared to the general population.

• People using alcohol or certain medications that impair judgment, balance, or coordination

Adults are also at risk, and drowning can occur even outside traditional swimming situations whenever water is accessible.

Where Drowning Most Often Happens by Age Group

Drowning risks change as children grow, and certain locations pose greater danger depending on age:

• Infants (Under 1 Year): Babies most often drown at home, with bathtubs being the most common setting. Even seemingly safe places—like buckets, toilets, and other containers that can hold water—can be hazardous for this age group.
• Young Children (Ages 1–4): The majority of fatal drownings in this group occur in home swimming pools or hot tubs. Most incidents happen in pools owned by a child’s family, relatives, or friends. Bathtubs remain a concern, and accessible water in or around the home—wells, decorative ponds, even septic tanks—can also pose a threat.
• Older Children and Teens (Ages 5–17): As kids become more independent, natural bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, rivers, or the beach become the most common sites for drowning.

Awareness of these high-risk locations helps parents and caregivers tailor safety strategies to their child’s age and environment.

How Drowning Risks Differ by Race, Ethnicity, and Income

Research highlights striking disparities in drowning risks across different communities. Children from African-American, Hispanic/Latino, and lower-income households are disproportionately affected. For example, children in families with fewer financial resources often have less access to swimming lessons and safe aquatic environments, putting them at greater risk.

Additionally, swimming ability tends to be lower among children whose parents themselves cannot swim confidently—creating a cycle that increases vulnerability. Among racial and ethnic groups, African-American children are particularly at risk, with significantly higher drowning rates in swimming pools compared to their Caucasian peers. Hispanic/Latino children also face elevated risks.

These patterns underscore the importance of expanding access to swimming education, addressing barriers faced by underserved communities, and fostering water safety awareness for everyone.

Core Principles of Drowning Prevention

No single intervention is fully protective against drowning. Research-based guidance emphasizes using multiple layers of protection together. If one layer fails, others may reduce the likelihood of a fatal outcome.

Drowning Prevention Strategies

Learn Basic Swimming and Water Safety Skills

Formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning. However, children and adults who have had swimming lessons still require close and constant supervision when in or around water.

How to Find Local Swim Classes and Water Safety Training

Accessible, age-appropriate swim lessons are available in most communities and play a crucial role in developing water competency for all ages—from infants to adults.

To locate nearby options:

• Check with your local YMCA, community recreation center, or municipal pool.
• Inquire at private swim schools or fitness clubs.
• Many city governments list swimming programs and schedules on their official websites.
• Pediatricians, schools, and parent networks may also provide reliable recommendations.

Remember, enrolling in formal lessons is an important prevention step, but no one—including strong swimmers—should ever rely on skill alone for safety.

The Influence of Parental Swimming Skills on Children’s Safety

A child’s likelihood of learning to swim is strongly linked to whether their parents possess swimming skills. When parents do not know how to swim, their children are much less likely to develop competency in the water, which increases their risk of drowning. Studies indicate that this connection affects families across many backgrounds, with a particularly high impact among African-American, Hispanic/Latino, and Caucasian children whose parents report little to no swimming ability.

Addressing gaps in swimming skills within families—by encouraging adults as well as children to participate in formal lessons—can play a significant role in enhancing safety for everyone around water.

Use Technology to Track Swimming Progress

Digital tools can support families in building water safety skills. Several free mobile apps—offered by organizations like the YMCA and SafeSwim—allow parents to track their children’s swimming milestones as they move from beginner to more advanced skills.

Key features of these apps include:

• Interactive water safety lessons and videos tailored for kids and adults
• Progress trackers to log completed skills and set new swimming goals
• Reminders for practice sessions or upcoming swim classes

Incorporating technology makes progress more visible and helps families stay engaged as children develop confidence and competence in the water.

Provide Close, Constant Supervision

Active supervision is one of the most important safety measures.

• Designate a responsible adult to watch children near water.
• Avoid distractions such as phones, reading, alcohol, or drugs.
• Supervise children closely even when lifeguards are present.
• Stay within arm’s reach of young children (“touch supervision”).

Drowning can occur in seconds, making continuous attention critical.

Use Physical Barriers Around Water

Environmental controls can substantially reduce drowning risk for young children.

• Install four-sided fencing at least four feet high that fully encloses pools.
• Use self-closing, self-latching gates.
• Lock doors that provide direct access to water.
• Remove toys from pool areas when not in use.

Barriers are a critical layer of protection, especially for families with small children or anyone living near a pool, pond, or other water feature. Even when children have learned basic swimming and water safety skills, physical barriers provide an essential safeguard—preventing unsupervised access to water and reducing the chance of accidents.

Encourage your family to become familiar with water safety practices together, making it a shared responsibility. Engaging children in learning about water safety through age-appropriate activities and regular discussions can help reinforce the importance of staying safe around water. Tracking your child’s progress as they develop swimming and safety skills can further empower them to make safer choices, but remember: no single measure takes the place of vigilant supervision and proper barriers.

Wear Life Jackets

Life jackets reduce the risk of drowning for people of all ages and swimming abilities, especially during boating and activities in natural water.

• Children should wear life jackets when near natural bodies of water.
• Life jackets can also help weaker swimmers in pools or lakes.
• Inflatable or foam toys are not safety devices and should not be relied upon.

Learn Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

CPR can save lives in a drowning emergency, particularly in the time before emergency responders arrive.

• CPR training is offered by organizations such as the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association.
• Training is available in both online and in-person formats.

If you’ve never taken a CPR course, consider enrolling in a class as soon as possible. Knowing how to provide effective chest compressions and rescue breaths can make a critical difference in an emergency situation. Many training providers offer flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes, to accommodate busy routines. Some organizations also provide support via phone or email if you have questions about certification or course selection.

If you’re already certified, keep your skills fresh with periodic refreshers or recertification. Quick action and confidence in CPR can be lifesaving while waiting for professional help to arrive.

Be Aware of Natural Water Hazards

Lakes, rivers, and oceans may have hidden dangers, including:

• Strong currents or waves
• Rocks or vegetation
• Limited visibility
• Rapidly changing weather conditions

Checking forecasts before water activities is recommended.

Additional Tips for Open Water Safety

• Always enter unknown or natural water feet first to avoid unseen hazards below the surface, such as rocks or sudden drop-offs.
• Avoid swimming alone in natural settings. Even experienced swimmers can get into trouble quickly.
• Be aware that rivers and streams can have swift currents, especially after rainfall or during spring snowmelt.
• Watch for warning signs or flags at beaches and follow guidance from lifeguards or local authorities.
• Stay within designated swimming areas whenever possible.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, and coordination and is associated with many drowning incidents.

• Avoid alcohol before or during swimming or boating.
• Do not consume alcohol while supervising children.

Take Extra Precautions for Medical Conditions and Medications

• People with seizure disorders may benefit from one-on-one supervision around water.
• Certain medications can increase drowning risk by impairing alertness or coordination.
• Extra care is advised for individuals with heart conditions or developmental conditions.

Avoid Hyperventilation and Prolonged Breath-Holding

Hyperventilating or attempting long breath-holds underwater can lead to loss of consciousness, sometimes called hypoxic or shallow-water blackout, and can result in drowning.

Water Safety Awareness Campaigns

Water safety and drowning prevention are often highlighted through public awareness efforts. Awareness months and campaigns exist to promote education and prevention, but dates and official designations may vary by organization.

Water Safety Resources and Activities

Numerous resources are available to help families, caregivers, and communities build water safety skills and promote safe habits around water. Many organizations offer materials tailored for different age groups and settings.

Educational Activities for Kids and Families

• Interactive games and videos that teach water safety rules in a fun, memorable way
• Printable coloring books and quizzes designed to reinforce safety tips for children
• Family-friendly safety challenges and drills to practice response in emergency scenarios
• Progress-tracking tools and swimming skills checklists

These activities help children and caregivers learn together, making safety knowledge engaging and accessible.

Home Pool and Hot Tub Safety Guidance

• Checklists for secure pool and hot tub barriers
• Tips for safe water chemistry and proper supervision during home swimming
• Clear instructions on installing alarms or safety covers and locking access points
• Resources from groups like the Pool Safely campaign (CPSC) and Safe Kids Worldwide

Open Water Safety Resources

• Guidance on swimming safely in lakes, rivers, and streams—including how to assess water conditions, avoid hazards, and wear appropriate safety gear
• Information on beach safety, including understanding rip currents, posted signs, and designated swimming areas

Life Jacket Information and Fitting

• Recommendations on choosing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets by size, activity, and swimming ability
• Instructional guides and videos for correct use and fit for both children and adults

Additional Learning Opportunities

• Local swim lesson providers and national organizations offering water safety classes and certifications for all ages and abilities
• Web-based directories to find nearby community pools and lessons

By using these resources, families can take important steps to build confidence and prevent drowning—while keeping water activities safe and enjoyable for everyone.

What to Do in a Drowning Emergency

If someone is struggling in the water:

Check the Water First if a Child Is Missing

If you notice a child is missing and there’s any chance they could be near water—such as a pool, pond, or lake—immediately search the water first. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, often when a child was not expected to be near the water. Seconds count, so looking in water areas before searching elsewhere is critical.

1. Call for help immediately and contact emergency services.
2. Remove the person from the water if it can be done safely.
3. Begin CPR as soon as possible if you are trained.
4. Seek urgent medical care, as oxygen deprivation can cause lasting injury.

Prompt action can reduce the risk of severe outcomes.

When to See a Doctor

Medical evaluation is recommended after any drowning or near-drowning event, even if the person seems to recover quickly. Symptoms related to oxygen deprivation or lung injury may appear hours after the incident.

Frequently Asked Questions

APA Reference List

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2004, June 4). Nonfatal and fatal drownings in recreational water settings—United States, 2001–2002. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5321a1.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, May 16). Drowning facts. https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/data-research/facts/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, September 29). Preventing drowning. https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/prevention/index.html

MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Drowning. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved December 28, 2025, from https://medlineplus.gov/drowning.html

Pearn, J. H., Franklin, R. C., & Peden, A. E. (2015). Hypoxic blackout: Diagnosis, risks, and prevention. International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education, 9(3), Article 9. https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.09.03.09

Szpilman, D., Webber, J., Quan, L., Bierens, J. J. L. M., Morizot-Leite, L., Langendorfer, S. J., Beerman, S., & Løfgren, B. (2014). Creating a drowning chain of survival. Resuscitation, 85(9), 1149–1152. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resuscitation.2014.05.034

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. (n.d.). Safety barrier guidelines for residential pools: Preventing child drownings (Publication No. 362). Retrieved December 28, 2025, from https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/362%20Safety%20Barrier%20Guidelines%20for%20Pools.pdf

World Health Organization. (n.d.). Clarification and categorization of non-fatal drowning: Draft position statement. Retrieved December 28, 2025, from https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/documents/drowning/non-fatal-drowning-categorization.pdf?sfvrsn=44d18cc1_2

World Health Organization. (2024, December 13). Drowning (Fact sheet). https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/drowning

American Heart Association. (n.d.). CPR and first aid. Retrieved December 28, 2025, from https://www.heart.org/en/cpr

American Red Cross. (n.d.). Training services and certification. Retrieved December 28, 2025, from https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/training-education.html