As summer begins and families across New Jersey head to pools, lakes, and beaches, the NJDOH’s-Public Health and Food Protection Program is proud to share the Drowning Prevention Toolkit, which is a resource developed to help keep children and families safe around the water!
The Healthy Swimming Toolkit is filled with important, evidence-based guidance to promote safer swimming environments and prevent water-related injuries and illnesses. Drowning is preventable. It can happen in seconds and often without a sound. With a few simple precautions, we can all help reduce the risk and protect our communities.
When you’re ready to swim, don’t forget to FLOAT.
- Focus on safety – stay alert and avoid distractions like cell phones.
- Learn basic swimming and rescue skills.
- Observe children at all times around water.
- Arm yourself and others with life jackets that fit correctly.
- Take breaks for bathroom trips and diaper checks.
Drowning Prevention
Water Safety Tips
- Life jackets save lives. Be sure they match the user’s chest size and weight.
- Chlorine doesn’t kill germs instantly. Some germs can survive in properly treated water for days. Avoid swallowing pool water.
- Shower before swimming, because sweat and dirt can reduce chlorine’s effectiveness.
- Take breaks with children. Check diapers and take regular bathroom trips.
- Supervise actively. Stay close and avoid distractions—drowning is fast and silent.
- Know how to respond. Learn CPR and how to recognize swimmers in distress.
- Teach swimming skills. Lessons reduce risk, but supervision is always needed.
Additional Water Safety & Healthy Swimming Guidance
Stay safe and swim smart!