Splashing into safety

With the weather heating up and the school year coming to an end, going for a swim is a fun and easy way to cool off and keep the family occupied.

As a provider of water to the Valley, we are committed to your safety around water.

Unfortunately, a fun time in the pool can quickly turn tragic. According to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Arizona’s drowning rate for children ages 1–4 is nearly double the national rate.  

Tips to stay safe

The Arizona Department of Health Services reports that drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for young children. The good news is that there are steps everyone can take to ensure children stay safe around water. 

1. Always assign a water watcher.

Whether it’s a scrub in the tub or you’re enjoying one of our beautiful Arizona lakes, a walk along a canal or splashing around in a pool, assign an adult to be a water watcher. Water watchers are capable adults who take ownership of the safety of everyone in and around water. Ideally, your water watcher will know how to swim, have CPR training and know the address in case of an emergency.  

2. Create a safe space

Pools should be enclosed with a self-locking fence with vertical bars, and gates should never be propped open. Outdoor furniture should be moved inside the pool fence so children can’t use it to climb over.

3. Take courses and teach children safety.

Learn how to perform CPR on infants, children and adults. Knowledge can help you save a life.

4. Use life jackets.

Don’t depend on a pool floaty. Life jackets should have the U.S. Coast Guard-approved label on them and fit properly based on weight.

5. Don’t go it alone.

Being safe isn’t just for kids. Always swim with a buddy or let someone know where you’ll be and for how long.

Learning to swim is important for the entire family

That’s why we also sponsor swimming lessons for adults and children throughout the Valley, as well as partner with Phoenix Children’s Hospital for the Playing it Safe workshops for parents and caregivers of children ages 5 and under. For more information, visit our Water Safety page.