Overview

Water activities are a source of fun and recreation, but without proper precautions, they can quickly turn dangerous. Drowning is a top cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 1–4 and remains a significant concern across all age groups. Many of these tragedies occur in familiar places like backyard pools, lakes, even bathtubs, and happen in seconds, often silently.

Educating families and communities on water safety is one of the most effective ways to prevent these incidents before they happen.

Special Considerations

Infants & Toddlers

Never leave young children unattended near any source of water, even buckets or bathtubs. Just one inch of water can pose a drowning hazard.

Open Water Awareness

Unlike swimming pools, open water has unpredictable currents, debris, and sudden drop-offs. Swim only in designated areas and always with a buddy.

Home Water Safety

Empty tubs, kiddie pools, and containers after use. Install toilet locks and keep bathroom doors closed if toddlers are in the home.

Key Prevention Strategies

  • Constant Supervision
    • Always keep a close eye on children in or near water. Designate a “Water Watcher”, a responsible adult who avoids distractions and is focused solely on monitoring swimmers. Even strong swimmers can get into trouble quickly.
  • Learn to Swim
    • Enroll children and adults in swimming lessons. Formal swimming instruction significantly lowers the risk of drowning. Many community centers, including local YMCAs, offer affordable or free classes.
  • Use Life Jackets
    • Use properly fitting, Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating, kayaking, or swimming in open water. Water wings, noodles, and inflatables are not substitutes for real flotation devices.
  • Install Pool Barriers
    • Backyard pools should be fenced on all four sides with self-latching gates. Alarms and pool covers can add an extra layer of protection.
  • Learn CPR
    • In a water emergency, every second counts. Immediate CPR can make the difference between life and death.
    • Cape Fear Valley Heart & Vascular Center offers FREE hands-only CPR training to the community. If you have a church, school group, or individual who would like to learn this life-saving skill, please contact:
      Ben Beason at bbeas@capefearvalley.com or call 910-615-8294.

Resources

Protect What Matters Most

  • Access The Five Layers of Protection Brochure: Click here