Be a Water Watcher

Hot summer days are right around the corner and San Diego families are ready to get into the pool or visit the beach to keep cool. But while the kids are swimming and splashing around in the water, vigilant adult supervision is vital to ensure their safety.

In the last two years, 16 children drowned and more than 200 children were admitted to Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego with injuries caused by near drowning incidents. To help prevent these incidents, Rady Children’s, Safe Kids San Diego and the San Diego Junior Lifeguard Foundation have launched the Water Watcher Tag campaign.

Water Watcher Tags are to be worn on the wrist of the adult supervising children in and around the water. The tag includes a whistle to use in case of emergency and a list of responsibilities for the “Water Watcher.” These important tasks include staying within arm’s reach of children in the water, avoiding distractions like socializing and keeping a cell phone nearby to call 911 if necessary.

Water Watcher Tags are free to the public and are available in English and Spanish. They can be picked up at fire stations, recreation centers and area YMCAs. For locations, visit: https://www.rchsd.org/documents/2016/05/water-watcher-tag-locations.pdf