SPLASH

Swim | Play | Learn | and | Stay | Healthy

The SPLASH program’s objective is to create a comprehensive, evidence-based program for children and families to prevent deaths and/or serious complications of submersion injuries through education, partnerships, and collaboration with the community.

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4.  Often times, this is due to children gaining unexpected access to water. With so many families staying home during the pandemic, we have seen a tragic increase in children drowning. For every child who dies from a drowning incident, another five receive emergency department care for nonfatal submersion injuries. Drownings are preventable and affect all people regardless of their background. Review the tips below and download a tip sheet to protect your family now.

  • Drowning is a leading cause of death for children, and continues to burden our local community
  • Create barriers between your child and the water
    • Close, lock, and alarm if possible, all doors that lead to water
  • Remove toys from any pool to avoid temptation
  • If you own inflatable pools, drain them after each use and store them upside down and out of reach
  • Always assign an adult to watch the water without any distractions (phones, books, or socializing with other adults)
  • EVERYONE should use Coast Guard approved life jackets when near open water or on boats or other watercraft
  • Many children drown when they were not expected to be in the water, so consider all of the possible hazards (bathtubs, buckets, ponds, creeks, etc,) for your family and take precautions now
  • Water Safety Tips Guide (English / Spanish)


Community Partners