Water Watchers Safety Program

In contrast to common belief, drowning accidents are frequently silent and go unnoticed, even within a few yards of adults. That’s why we’ve introduced the Water Watchers Safety Program!

“There is more to water safety than simply teaching children how to swim,” said Melissa McGarvey, Director of Aquatics for British Swim School. “Even once children are comfortable and confident in the water, parents must still take the necessary steps to ensure somebody who knows how to keep them safe in the event of an emergency is present and attentive.”

Continue reading to learn more about the Water Watchers Safety Program and the importance of the designated person overseeing kids in the water having a specific set of qualifications. 

How Do Water Watchers Work?

Constant and attentive supervision is the best way to prevent a drowning incident. As such, we ask that a responsible adult(s) wear a Water Watcher badge at all swimming gatherings.

The Water Watcher acts as a drowning prevention tool. The person wearing the Water Watcher badge is responsible for watching the water until it’s empty of swimmers or the badge has transferred to another person, who then becomes the new Water Watcher. The new person will then carry on as the Water Watcher.

Characteristics of an Appropriate Water Watcher

To designate an appropriate Water Watcher, we recognize the importance of outlining what a Water Watcher is. A Water Watcher is someone who:

• Is at least 16 years of age (adults preferred).
• Has the skills, knowledge, and the ability to recognize and rescue someone in distress or can immediately alert someone nearby who does or can.
• Knows CPR or can immediately alert someone nearby who can.
• Has a working phone to call for emergency help, which is typically 9-1-1.
• Has a floatation device and/or reaching object that can be used in a rescue.
• Is ALERT and not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or distracted by texting, the telephone, talking to others, or reading.

Download a Water Watcher Badge