Lifesaving Water Safety Tips

Long Island’s beaches and pools offer endless summer fun — but they also come with real risks. Here, our drowning prevention experts share what families need to know to stay safe. 

Why do I need to be concerned about drowning?
Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury and death for children ages 1–4, and the second leading cause for kids 5–14. It can happen in as little as 2 inches of water — even in bathtubs or kiddie pools. Adults are also at risk, with nearly 5,000 drownings each year in the U.S. 

What’s the most important thing I can do to keep my child safe?
Active supervision is the best way to spot someone in danger. Always assign a designated Water Watcher — a responsible, sober adult whose only job is to watch the water without distractions — no cellphones or side conversations. Rotate this role every 15–20 minutes to stay alert. 

Should my child take swimming lessons?
Absolutely. Formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88%. Adults who don’t swim should also consider lessons. If cost is an issue, local governments may be able to connect you to free or low-cost lessons.

What should I do to make my home safer?
Drowning often happens when a child isn’t expected to be near the water. Use layers of protection around any water source.
Here’s a checklist:
✓ Install four-sided pool fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates. This can reduce drowning risk by up to 83%.
✓ Add door alarms and locks for extra safety.
✓ Empty buckets, kiddie pools and bathtubs after each use.
✓ Remove toys from pools so kids aren’t tempted to reach in unsupervised.
✓ Learn CPR. 

What should I know about toddlers and kids with special needs?
Children with autism, developmental delays or seizure disorders are at higher risk of drowning. They may need specialized swim lessons and closer supervision — know where your child is at all times and prevent unsupervised access to water. Use “touch supervision” — stay within arm’s reach of toddlers and inexperienced swimmers. Teach children water safety from a young age and to never go near the water without a grown-up. Ask your child to high-five you before entering the water every time.

What extra precautions should I take in unfamiliar settings or vacation properties?
Vacations, parties or rented homes often lack proper barriers and come with unexpected distractions. On arrival:
• Scan for nearby water hazards when in a new place — it’s not always a pool.
• Stay extra alert if fencing, alarms or covers are missing.
• Don’t let children play next to the pool. When swim time is over, remove pool toys, secure the pool area and explain that the pool is off limits.
• Remind those at social gatherings to keep gates and doors locked and closed at all times.

How do I know if someone is drowning? Won’t I hear it?
Drowning is often silent and happens quickly — kids may not splash or call for help. Teach children to spot signs like someone struggling to stay afloat, stuck in a pool toy or looking exhausted. Yell for an adult to help as soon as possible. 

What should I do if someone is drowning?
If you can’t safely get the person onto land, immediately scream out for help. Otherwise:
1. Begin CPR immediately.
2. Ask someone to call 911.
3. If you’re alone, perform CPR for 2 minutes and then call 911.
4. If possible, get the victim to a Level 1 Trauma Center or the nearest emergency department — brain damage from oxygen loss can occur quickly.

Where can I learn more?
Visit stonybrook.info/summer for more tips, training resources and swim program info.