Drowning Prevention

Work with local governments to implement policies and regulations for residential pool safety that mandate the installation of a four-sided pool fence that completely separates the pool area from the house and yard. The fence should be at least 4 feet high and have self-closing and self-latching gates that open outward with latches that are out of reach of children.
Work with local governments to implement policies and regulations for public pool safety (including apartment, hotel, and neighborhood association pools) that require installation of a four-sided pool fence that completely encloses the pool area and limits access by a controlled door or gate.
Work with appropriate governmental agencies to increase awareness and enforce open-water safety regulations

Ensure that retailers of pools, spas, and watercraft include safety education to customers
Distribute retail packets that include local laws and regulations regarding pool/spa home safety and open-water sports activities

Involve and get support from parents, civic organizations, schools, and retailers of water-related sports to develop awareness campaigns and education.
Enlist community groups to increase accessibility to formal swimming lessons.

Work with pediatricians to provide information about water safety during well-child visits

Promote barriers such as automatic door locks to prevent access to residential pools
Promote pool alarms for residential pools to alert homeowners if someone enters the pool area
Promote information about water safety through the CDC Injury Center social media outlets
- Twitter
- Protect the Ones you Love

Provide formal swimming lessons for children and adults
Encourage pool owners to remove floats, balls, and other toys from the pool and surrounding area immediately after use so children are not tempted to enter the pool area unsupervised
Encourage the use of approved personal flotation devices as noted on the manufacturer’s label.

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