Drowning Prevention Background
We've been working for many years to understand what factors lead to child and teen drownings, to work with community coalitions and to develop programs to reduce drowning risk and prevent drowning.
Research began in the late 1970's with the development of a drowning database. Research efforts continue today through the leadership of Dr. Linda Quan, Chief, Emergency Department at Children's Hospital.
The Stay on Top of It drowning prevention campaign began in 1992. Primary objectives are to increase life vest use and water safety skills and awareness.
Program elements include:
- educational materials
- public service and news media
- policy
- life vest loan programs
- discount coupons
- special events
- partnerships with community organizations, government and business
The Washington State Drowning Prevention Network was developed in 1994 with the Washington State Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical and Trauma Prevention. It has been supported in part by federal grants through Emergency Medical Services for Children.
Work focuses on development of regional drowning prevention coalitions and programs and addresses adolescent drowning risk reduction and prevention.
Grant products include:
- a community assessment
- training programs
- signage
- life vest observation protocol and data
- life vest loan programs
- resources for special populations including a Spanish English foto novela
- technical assistance
Would you like more information about the Stay on Top of It Campaign and the Washington State Drowning Prevention Network? Interested in starting a drowning prevention campaign in your own community?
Drop us a line or send us an e-mail message.
