As the new year begins, it is time to reflect on the strides made in water safety the past year. 2023 has been a significant year for advancements in drowning prevention and water safety education. All of the efforts aimed at reducing drowning incidents have enhanced water safety across the United States.
One of the key developments was the launch of the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan. This comprehensive plan serves as a roadmap for reducing water-related injuries. It emphasizes collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profits, and local communities, to create safer water environments. This plan has ideas and collaborations you can share with your clients to help them be safer in and around the water.
In a similar vein, the California Water Safety Strategy was unveiled, targeting the specific needs and challenges of the state known for its extensive coastline and numerous bodies of water. This strategy is tailored to address the diverse demographic and geographic landscapes of California, ensuring that water safety measures are inclusive and effective for all its residents.
2023 also saw the innovative combination of the National Water Safety Conference and the Association of Aquatic Professionals Conference. This collaboration brought together experts, pool professionals, and advocates for water safety. The joint conference shared the importance of uniting efforts across different sectors to enhance water safety education and practices. The 2024 conference will continue to bring together people within the aquatic field in Reno, Nevada.
Another noteworthy initiative was the NDPA’s launch of the various Toolkits. The NDPA has created and shared a toolkit for Aquatic Professionals, Pool Builders and Service Professionals that provides valuable information and tools for families, educators, and community members to promote water safety. You can find information to share with your clients to help spread awareness and keep people safer.
The Water Safety Champion of the Month Recognition was also introduced, celebrating individuals and organizations making significant contributions to water safety. This recognition serves as a powerful tool to raise awareness and inspire others to take part in water safety initiatives.
In its ongoing efforts, the NDPA joined the National Water Safety Month, a campaign that highlights the importance of water safety practices and education each May. Another pivotal moment was when the NDPA collaborated with Abbey’s Hope to highlight a critical safety issue: illegal drain covers that were being sold online. This partnership led to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recalling those hazardous drain covers, showcasing the power of advocacy in enforcing safety regulations.
The creation of NDPA’s new Public Service Announcement (PSA), ‘Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning,’ marks a significant step in helping to educate the public. This PSA challenges common misconceptions about drowning, highlighting its often silent and undramatic nature. By dispelling myths, it aims to enhance vigilance and prompt life-saving interventions.
Last, The Water Safety Day on Capitol Hill was a landmark event, bringing the issue of water safety directly to the nation’s policymakers. This day of advocacy and awareness raised the need for legislative support and national policies to bolster water safety measures.
While all of the efforts made toward water safety have been impactful, there is still more to be done in 2024. Collaboration and enthusiasm toward the cause can help make sure that your clients, families, friends, and communities are safer in and around the water.
