CPSC Grants Local Communities $2.5M To Combat Pool Drownings

The grant money is allocated to states to help reduce the risk of drownings in swimming pools, which are among the leading causes of death among children under four years old.

Federal safety authorities have allocated over $2 million in grants, as part of an effort to improve safety at public pools and spas across the United States, and reduce the risk of drowning death for children.

In a press release issued on October 1, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the Pool Safely Grants for 10 states and local governments to support local efforts to prevent pool and spa drownings, and drain entrapments.

The funds are earmarked for educational programs, training, and the enforcement of pool safety regulations in the respective regions. The CPSC systematically gathers data on pool and spa safety, tracking injuries, fatalities, and identifying demographics at greatest risk. Additionally, the commission runs educational outreach to lessen drowning incidents.

Drowning poses a significant risk to young children due to their size, limited ability to swim, and lack of water safety awareness. Such incidents can happen swiftly and silently, often in mere inches of water, leaving caregivers little time to react.

Another critical safety concern that will be addressed by some of the grant money is drain entrapment, where individuals, particularly children, can become stuck underwater by the strong suction of pool or spa drains. Such entrapments can be fatal and occur when hair, limbs or clothing are caught by a drain, emphasizing the need for vigilant supervision and awareness of safety measures.

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGB Act), signed into law by President George W. Bush in December 2007, supports these grants. The Act facilitates state and local efforts to enhance pool safety through education, training and regulatory compliance, focusing on preventing drowning and entrapment hazards.

The following communities have received grants under the VGB Act:

• City of Seattle, Washington ($399,358)
• Pima County, Arizona ($398,314)
• New Orleans Health Department, Louisiana ($395,240)
• City of Newport, Oregon ($234,981)
• Florida Department of Health in Broward County ($200,000)
• Florida Department of Health (whole state) Pool Safety Grant Program ($200,000)
• City of Columbus, Ohio ($200,000)
• City of Harlingen, Texas ($192,732)
• City of Yuma, Arizona ($154,447)
• City of Delray Beach, Florida ($140,205)

For more information on the Pool Safety Grant Program and the VGB Act as well as free, downloadable educational materials, individuals can visit CPSC’s website at www.PoolSafety.gov.