Designating a Water Watcher at your next pool party or day on the river could save a life. Children should always be supervised when in, on, or around the water. Children of any age who cannot swim should be within arms reach of a water capable adult at all times.

Why Do We Need a Water Watcher?
-No one is drown proof and drowning does not discriminate.
-Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury and death in children ages 1-4.
-Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury and death in children 1-17 years old .
-Drowning is silent and quick, usually happening in 20-60 seconds unlike what we see in the movies.
-23% of child drownings happen at a family gathering around a pool.
-Children 5-17 years old are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water (ie: lake, river, pond, etc.).

Who can be a Water Watcher?
-An adult (children 16 years and older can also water watch).
-Water Watchers must have the skills and ability to recognize someone in distress and act to help them or immediately be able to notify someone nearby with the capabilities.

Why You Should Rotate Water Watchers
It's a good idea to Water Watch in shifts of 15-20 minutes if you aren't hiring a full time Water Watcher or Lifeguard for your party/event.
-Keeps water watchers eyes fresh.
-Keeps the possibility of distractions (conversations, phones, etc.) easier to manage in shorter time spans.
-Gives the Water Watcher the opportunity to socialize with family and friends throughout the party too

What is the Water Watcher Pledge?
To help protect children from drowning, I will:
-Constantly watch the children who are in or near water, and keep them within reach.
-Give the Water Watcher tag to another adult who agrees to actively watch the children if I need to leave for any reason.
-Make sure rescue equipment is easily accessible and keep phone and emergency numbers with me.
-In case of an emergency, I will yell for help, get the child and all other children out of the water , and dial 9-1-1. I will never leave the child; if I am trained, I will begin CPR and first aid, if necessary.

We've teamed up with Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health to create Water Watcher tags! Keep your loved ones safe at your next pool party and pick up your Water Watcher tag at the front desk at your next swimming lesson.