The water safety team works collaboratively to identify evidence-based solutions to help prevent drowning incidents in Greater Houston. Many of our outreach and community educational programs, projects, and events are guided by community partner organizations, which help focus our efforts on water safety and drowning prevention strategies to improve the quality of life in our communities.

Drowning Is More Common Than You Think

Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death among children between the ages of 1 and 4.
Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death among children between the ages 1 and 12.
Most drownings occur in swimming pools; however, they can happen anywhere at anytime (lakes, rivers, ponds, beaches, septic tanks, etc.).
In 2020, Texas reported having 80 drownings. Almost 80% of these incidences happened to children 4 years old and younger.
Nearly 30% of drownings occurred in Harris County and surrounding areas.
Since the start of 2021, 37 children have drowned in the state of Texas.

2020 Child Drownings in Texas