OUR CHALLENGE AND PURPOSE

Drowning is a major problem globally, in the United States, and in the State of California. Approximately 400 drowning deaths occur each year in California, in addition to non-fatal events resulting in another 400 hospitalizations and over 1,000 emergency department visits per year.  Each submersion event affects multiple lives: the person who drowns, family members, rescuers, and the community at large. Moreover, both fatal and non-fatal drowning events are associated with complex emotional, economic and societal costs that justify robust prevention and risk reduction efforts.

Many organizations including governmental bodies, private industry and non-profit groups are involved in water safety and drowning prevention across the state. The California Water Safety Coalition exists to bring these groups together based on the firm the belief that we are more impactful together. The Coalition is a broad, multisectoral network that bridges professional and geographic silos in order to ensure that everyone in California is safe in and around the water.