06/04/2026
Water safety is especially important for families in Hawaiʻi, where keiki are often surrounded by pools, beaches and open water.
According to the Hawaiʻi Water Safety Coalition and KIPC Hawaii, drowning can happen quickly and quietly, which is why prevention starts with simple, consistent safety habits at home and around the water.
Parents and caregivers can help protect keiki by staying alert and avoiding distractions whenever children are in or near water. Young children should always be kept within arm’s reach of an adult. After use, tubs, buckets, containers and kiddie pools should be emptied right away and stored upside down so they do not collect water. Pool areas should also be secured with a four-sided fence and self-closing, self-latching gates.
When heading to the beach, pool or ocean, swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present, make sure children use properly fitted life jackets when needed and take time to learn CPR and basic water rescue skills. These steps may seem simple, but they can make a life-saving difference.
AMR Hawaiʻi encourages families to make water safety part of their everyday routine and take proactive steps to help keep keiki safe in and around water.
