August is Drowning Impact Awareness Month

Every year, an average of 20 children drown in Maricopa County. So far this year, there have been 11 fatalities and 65 water incidents in which the children survived; an estimated 10 percent of these have permanent neurological damage.

Drowning is the second most common cause of injury for children in the state of Arizona. And it is completely preventable.

For the fourth year, the Water Watchers program, led by Phoenix Children's Hospital along with Arizona fire departments and local businesses are recognizing August as Drowning Impact Awareness Month.

This year, the effort will include:

• distribution of more than 30,000 purple ribbons worn by supporters,
• proclamations  from the governor and mayors across the state
• a state-wide focus on water safety,
• and water safety events throughout the Valley.

Why do it?

• To recognize the impact of each drowning and near-drowning on family, friends, emergency personnel, and our community.
• To increase discussion about drowning and share prevention information that can avert future water-related incidents for Valley kids.

What you can do:

• Wear purple awareness ribbons.
• Include water safety information in existing newsletters and marketing information.
• Incorporate Drowning Impact Awareness into activities throughout August.
• Encourage water safety discussions.
• Spread the word about existing efforts for maximum attention and support.

For the entire month of August, purple ribbons will be tied to the trees in front of Phoenix Children's Hospital, one for each water-related incident involving a child in Maricopa County since January 1, 2000. More than 800 ribbons will be displayed.

If you'd like to get involved, you can request and distribute purple ribbons or volunteer for Water Watchers at Phoenix Children's Hospital.

Most importantly, practice water safety in your home.

Other helpful information:

ABCs of Water Safety Checklist

Pool Safety Tips

Swimming Pool Barrier Codes by City

Contact us:

For more information, or a purple ribbon for Drowning Impact Awareness Month, please contact Tiffaney Isaacson at (602) 546-1712 or tisaacson@phoenixchildrens.com.