NATIONAL MONTH

National Water Safety Month

National Water Safety Month is an invitation to step outside — dirt under your nails, green in your eye, weather in your hair.

WHEN

May, annually

Roots: Established by the World Waterpark Association, APSP, NRPA, and the American Red Cross
Vibe: Awareness and prevention save lives.
Hashtag: #NationalWaterSafetyMonth

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Water Safety Month.

Take a walk without your phone — just the walk.
Plant something. Anything.
Pick up ten pieces of litter from a place you love.
Learn the name of one tree, bird, or wildflower in your neighborhood.
Leave a place a little better than you found it.

Fast facts

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4.

An estimated 4,000 fatal drownings occur in the U.S. each year.

The story

Water is an essential part of life, but it can also be dangerous. May is National Water Safety Month, a time to promote safe practices around pools, lakes, and oceans. Established by the World Waterpark Association, the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, the National Recreation & Park Association, and the American Red Cross, this initiative emphasizes the importance of education in preventing drownings and other water-related accidents. As families gear up for summer activities, understanding water safety is crucial.

Read the full story

Throughout the month, organizations across the country host events aimed at raising awareness about water safety. From swim lessons to safety workshops, these initiatives provide essential information for people of all ages. Parents are encouraged to teach their children about the dangers of water and the importance of swimming safety. Learning how to float, swim, and call for help can make a significant difference.

In addition to formal events, communities can foster a safety-first culture. Installing safety equipment like pool alarms and life jackets, as well as supervising children around water, are key steps that everyone can take. It is also vital to recognize the signs of distress in swimmers and understand what to do in case of an emergency. The more informed we are, the safer our water experiences will be.

As we celebrate National Water Safety Month, let’s take the time to reflect on our practices and encourage others to do the same. Whether at home, at community pools, or at the beach, everyone has a role in promoting water safety. Together, we can ensure that our summer fun does not come at a perilous cost.