Florida has set a grim new record in 2025, with child drowning deaths surpassing all previous years — and with over a month still remaining in the year at the time of reporting. The troubling milestone is prompting state lawmakers to take action, with new legislation aimed at education, prevention, and stricter pool safety standards.
Two Orlando-area lawmakers have proposed requiring drowning prevention education information for new parents and for homeowners with pools. One state senator is also pushing to require older homes to comply with Florida’s current pool barrier laws — a gap that has long contributed to childhood drowning deaths. More than 100 children drowned in Florida in 2025 alone.
Florida consistently leads the nation in child drowning deaths. The state’s warm climate and abundance of residential swimming pools make water access a year-round reality. Experts advocate for mandatory pool fencing, door alarms, and accessible swim lessons as proven safeguards. A separate comprehensive water safety bill introduced by a Florida senator in November 2025 also includes requirements for swim safety training for children and caregivers.
Emma’s Project was founded in response to exactly this kind of preventable tragedy. We urge Florida families to enroll children in swim lessons, install pool barriers, and learn CPR. No child should become a statistic. Read the full story at the Orlando Sentinel: https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2025/11/28/florida-sets-new-record-for-child-drownings-lawmakers-look-to-reduce-deaths/