Florida’s Water Safety Strategy

Celebrating Water Safely

In 2023, Florida began its work toward a comprehensive water safety strategy following the launch of the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan. Prior to this, several local and regional entities across the state had undertaken their own initiatives. After the 2023 Call to Action, however, the Florida Department of Children and Families, represented by Tina Morgan and Kirby Morgan, assumed primary leadership to streamline communication statewide. A comprehensive review of available data, along with in‑depth analyses, formed the foundation for advancing the development of the state’s strategies.

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DROWNING IS THE #1 CAUSE OF DEATH

Drowning is the #1 cause of preventable death for Florida’s children between the ages of 0 and 4.

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MAINTAINS THE #1 DROWNING COUNT

Florida ranks 1st in the nation for the total number of child drownings, and is the only state to also place in the top 5 for its pediatric drowning rate.

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AVERAGE OF 70% OCCURS IN POOLS

On average, 70% of Florida’s fatal drownings happen in backyard swimming pools and 85% occur during non-swim time.

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CHILDREN WITH AUTISM ARE AT HIGHER RISK

Children with autism are estimated to be 160% to 300% more likely to die from drowning than children without autism.

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Through education and advocacy, we continue to strive for a Florida that celebrates water safely. This has become our motto as our State is surrounded by water, and our hope is that every resident and visitor enjoy this abundant resource respectfully.

Our Vision, Mission, & Values

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OUR VISION

A Florida where all residents and visitors celebrate water safely.

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OUR MISSION

Our mission is to provide a framework, advocacy platform and organizational model to foster integration, collaboration and development for all entities across the State of Florida focused on eradicating drowning.

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OUR VALUES

Each of the nine priorities within the Florida Water Safety Strategy moves forward focused on the values of equity, collaboration, evidence and evaluation, and local context. As such, Florida’s Plan calls to action every city, county, or region to develop education and initiatives appropriate for the respective area.