DID YOU KNOW?
In 2018, Olympic skier Bode Miller’s 19-month-old daughter tragically drowned at a neighbor’s pool party. [2] It only took a moment for a fun gathering to become a devastating loss.
STAY INFORMED
- Each year, over 4,500 people in the U.S. die from drowning, making it one of the leading causes of unintentional death. [1]
- Tragically, around 350 of these drowning victims are children under the age of 5. [1]
- Drowning is the #1 cause of death for children ages 1–4, surpassing car accidents. [1]
- Pool parties are especially risky because adults may assume someone else is watching the kids — a dangerous mistake.
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Install a Pool Fence
- Secure the pool area with a four-sided fence at least 4 feet high. Ensure self-closing and self-latching gates to keep unsupervised kids out. [3]
2. Assign a Water Watcher
- Designate a responsible adult to supervise swimmers at all times. Rotate duties every 15–30 minutes to ensure focused attention. [3]
3. Don't Assume Someone Else Is Watching
- In group settings, bystander effect is real. Unless someone is assigned, everyone assumes someone else is watching — often with tragic results.
4. Establish a Swim Zone
- Mark off a shallow end or safe swim area for young kids. Keep non-swimmers within arm’s reach, and require floatation devices if needed. [1]
POOL SAFETY REMINDER
Drowning is fast and silent. It can happen in seconds without a splash or scream. Whether you're hosting or attending, stay alert, supervise closely, and take proactive steps to keep pool parties safe and enjoyable.