The Basics
- Holiday gatherings often mean more time near pools, lakes, and waterways — and more distractions for supervising adults. Drowning risk spikes during holidays, especially the Fourth of July and Memorial Day weekends.
- Formal swim lessons reduce drowning risk by 88% for children ages 1–4. Enrolling your child before swim season — including holiday weekends — is one of the best gifts you can give.
- Water awareness means knowing your family’s skill levels, understanding the water environment, and planning for safety before you arrive — not after an emergency.
- Emma’s Project provides swim lesson resources, safety cards, and community education to help families stay safe year-round — including during the holidays.
- WEBSITE: Support Emma’s Project
- WEBSITE: American Red Cross: Water Safety
Action Items
- Enroll in swim programs before the holiday season. Most programs are available year-round, and starting early ensures your family is prepared.
- At holiday gatherings with a pool, designate a Water Guardian — one adult whose sole job is to watch the water during the party. Rotate this role every 15–20 minutes to maintain alertness.
- Bring properly fitted life jackets for young swimmers and non-swimmers to any open-water holiday activity.
- Keep the pool area fenced and gated when not in use, especially during parties when adults may be distracted.
- Keep a phone nearby and know the address of where you’re celebrating so you can communicate it to 911 if needed.
- RESOURCE: Emma’s Project: Learn To Swim Resource Page
Dive Deeper
- According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, pool and spa drownings increase significantly around holiday weekends. Fourth of July weekend consistently sees some of the highest drowning rates of the year in the U.S.
- Alcohol is a factor in up to 70% of adolescent and adult drownings. At holiday gatherings, encourage designated sober supervision of any water areas — just like a designated driver.
- Post-holiday swim lesson enrollment often spikes after near-drowning events. Enroll before the season — and encourage friends and neighbors to do the same. Prevention is always better than response.
- ARTICLE: CPSC: Drowning Risks This Holiday Weekend
- GUIDE: American Red Cross Water Safety Tips (PDF)