Watch Like Their Life Depends on It. Help Prevent Child Drownings
It takes just 20 seconds for a child to drown. If they're near water, we should be watching. Water risks don't take breaks.
Real Stories from Virginia Families
Two mothers share what happened, what they learned, and what they want every parent to know.
Kim's Story
Mother whose child drowned.
More from Kim
Katie's Story
Mother of a drowning survivor.
More from Katie
Watch. Don't Assume Someone Else Will.
Lifeguards scan crowds. Parents multitask. But water safety requires active watching. If they're near water, we should be watching. Water risks don't take breaks.
#1 Cause
Drowning is the #1 cause of death for children ages 1–4
20 Seconds
Drowning happens fast when you're not watching
Watch Gap
Lack of active watching is the leading cause in Virginia
Watch for Risks Everywhere Water Exists
Water risks aren't seasonal. They exist year-round in pools, bathtubs, lakes and even buckets. These examples highlight what to watch for.
Pools & Hot Tubs
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Watch children actively — never assume they're safe.
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Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets — never floaties.
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Maintain proper barriers and safety equipment around pools and hot tubs.
Lakes, Beaches, Docks
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Watch constantly near water — never leave a child unattended.
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Know the depth before diving — avoid drop-offs.
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Ensure docks have gates and safety rails.
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Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets — never floaties.
Bath Tubs and Hidden Hazards
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Watch constantly near water — never leave a child unattended.
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Empty bathtubs immediately after use.
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Dump standing water after every use.
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Store buckets and kiddie pools upside down.
Every Second You're Watching Counts.
It takes just 20 seconds for a child to drown. If there's water, you should be watching. Water risks don't take breaks.
There's Always Risk — Here's What Changes with the Seasons
Water dangers never take a break, but they do shift with the seasons. Keep these changing risks in mind as the year progresses.
Summer Safety
Peak swimming season brings the highest risk of drowning incidents. Backyard pools, community centers, and beach trips require constant vigilance.
Key Prevention Tips:
- Install proper pool barriers and alarms
- Ensure lifeguards are present and alert
- Never leave children unattended near water
- Learn CPR before the season starts
"Just ran inside to grab sunscreen, couldn't have been more than 30 seconds..."
Fall Safety
As outdoor activities decrease, bathroom and indoor water safety becomes crucial. Hot tubs and bathtubs pose significant risks for young children.
Key Prevention Tips:
- Empty bathtubs immediately after use
- Install bathroom door locks
- Monitor hot tub temperatures
- Never leave children alone during bath time
"I was just getting towels from the linen closet when I heard the splash..."
Winter Safety
Cold weather creates unique hazards like thin ice on ponds and increased indoor water heater risks. Awareness is key during holiday gatherings.
Key Prevention Tips:
- Test ice thickness before allowing access
- Check water heater temperature settings
- Educate children about frozen water dangers
- Maintain awareness during holiday parties
"The kids said the ice looked thick enough, but we never checked properly..."
Spring Safety
Spring cleaning and rain create unexpected water hazards. Buckets, rain barrels, and even large puddles can pose risks to curious toddlers.
Key Prevention Tips:
- Store buckets and containers upside down
- Cover rain collection barrels
- Clear large puddles from play areas
- Be extra vigilant during outdoor cleanup
"We were cleaning the garage and left the bucket out - didn't think twice about it..."
Tools You Can Use Today
Get trusted resources and tools you need to keep children safe around water.
VDSS Water Safety Guide
Simple, practical tips for families to prevent drownings and stay safe around pools, bathtubs, lakes and other bodies of water.
Access ResourceSwim Healthy Virginia
Guidance on safe swimming practices, water quality and preventing recreational water illnesses in Virginia.
Access ResourceSafe Kids Worldwide — Water Safety at Home
Expert-backed advice to help families protect children from drowning at home, in pools and on open water.
Access ResourceNational Park Service — Water Hazards
National Park Service tips for avoiding water-related dangers while swimming, boating or exploring near rivers and lakes.
Access ResourcePool Safely
A national campaign offering safety checklists, educational videos and tools to prevent child drownings in pools and spas.
Access ResourceBean's Way Foundation
A nonprofit raising awareness and providing resources to prevent childhood drownings, inspired by one family's story.
Access Resource
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