Water Watcher: Drowning Prevention Starts With You
Published on July 22, 2026
Written by Annie Wichert, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
It’s estimated that 236,000 people drown every year, and in 2025 alone, Florida led the nation with record number children drowning. Sadly, Florida is on track to set a new record for annual drownings in 2026 with more than 62 this year.
Accidents don’t just happen when no one is present. A high number of drownings happen during a family event and 88% of child drownings happen with at least one adult present.
July 25 is World Drowning Prevention Day, and you can do your part to promote water safety by participating in the Water Watcher Program.
What is a Water Watcher?
A Water Watcher is a designated individual who is actively supervising the swimmers in the pool or water without distractions. Water Watchers play a vital role in preventing water-related accidents.
How do you become a Water Watcher?
It is free and easy to become a Water Watcher. The City of Dunedin offers free Water Watcher badges that are designed to be worn on a lanyard as a reminder to stay vigilant and attentive. Each badge has a list of responsibilities that explains what to do as a Water Watcher.
What are your responsibilities as a Water Watcher?
As the designated Water Watcher, you promise to:
- Locate and learn to use the pool safety equipment
- Keep a constant watch on all children
- Regularly scan the bottom of the pool
- Avoid poolside chats and talking on the phone
- Keep a phone nearby for emergencies and know your address and location
- Find another Water Watcher if you have to leave or get distracted
While wearing the Water Watcher badge, you need to be free of distractions. Avoid conversations and give your full attention to the swimmers. If you are with other adults, create shifts. Fifteen-minute intervals are recommended before passing off the badge to another Water Watcher. As you rotate, discuss any issues or if a child is getting tired.
How do you get Water Watcher badge?
Free Water Watcher badges are available to be picked up at the Community Center (1920 Pinehurst Rd.) and at Highlander Pool (1937 Ed Eckert Dr).
World Drowning Prevention Day Tips
In addition to becoming a Water Watcher, there are other things you can do to be proactive and prevent water accidents.
Layers of Protection: It’s important to have multiple layers of protection when it comes to water safety. Fences with locks, alarms and other barriers can alert you when someone is in the pool area can save a life.
Keep Toys Put Away: The water is a huge attraction for children, especially those on spectrum, and even older adults who may be tempted to reach for a toy and accidentally fall in. Keep toys and pool noodles out of reach when not in use.
Educate Family Members: It is important for other family members and friends to be educated on water safety. Clarify the layers of protection if you have a pool and explain how to use the Water Watcher badge.
Check the Water First: According to the Red Cross, many young children who drown were not expected to be in or at the pool. The water is the first place you should look if a child is missing.
Swimsuits: The color of your child’s swimsuit can save their life. Bright neon colors such as orange, yellow and green are much easier to spot in the water. Avoid blues, dark green, black and white.
Swim Lessons: Swim lessons are essential for preventing drowning. Families have several options, including at-home swimming lessons or signing up for group swimming lessons at Highlander Pool.
CPR Certification: Always call 911 in the case of an emergency, However, being CPR certified can give you the training you need to provide lifesaving breaths and chest compressions until EMTs arrive on the scene. You can find CPR classes at Redcross.org.
First Aid Kit: It is important to have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.
Life Jackets: Life jackets must be Coast Guard approved and fit properly. Make it part of the swimsuit routine and introduce life jackets to kids early so they are used to wearing them when around water and on boats.
Ready to become a Water Watcher? Visit Highlander Pool or the Community Center to get your free Water Watcher badge. For more information, call 727-29-3266.