New York State Education Law requires school districts to provide families with information about drowning prevention, water safety and safe and healthy swimming.
This information is intended to help families understand water-related risks and promote safe practices in, on and around water.
Safe and Healthy Swimming
- Never swim alone. Always swim with a buddy.
- Actively supervise children whenever they are near water. Stay within arm’s reach of young children.
- Do not rely solely on lifeguards. Parents and caregivers are responsible for close supervision.
- Learn to swim. Swimming and water safety skills help reduce the risk of drowning.
- Wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or participating in water activities. Inflatable toys and water wings are not safety devices.
- Know your limits. Non-swimmers should stay in shallow water appropriate for their ability.
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Never dive into shallow or unfamiliar water.
- Check weather conditions before swimming outdoors and avoid swimming during storms or severe weather.
- Learn CPR and basic first aid. Quick action can save lives in an emergency.
Healthy Swimming Practices
Help keep yourself and others healthy by:
- Swimming only in clean, clear water.
- Avoiding swallowing pool or lake water.
- Washing hands after swimming and before eating.
- Staying out of the water if you are sick or have an open wound.
- Showering before entering pools whenever possible.
Drowning Prevention
Drowning can happen quickly and quietly—even in a few inches of water.
Children are at the greatest risk, making constant adult supervision essential. Other important safety measures include:
- Installing four-sided fencing around home pools.
- Never leaving children unattended near bathtubs, pools, buckets, or other standing water.
- Wearing life jackets while boating or participating in water recreation.
- Avoiding swimming alone or in areas without lifeguards.
For more information, please visit the New York State Department of Health Safe and Healthy Swimming web page.
Source: New York State Department of Health. (August 2025). Safe Swimming Tip Card.