Essential Pool Safety Tips to Prevent Child Drowning

Two recent child drownings in Phoenix—one involving a 1-year-old and another a 3-year-old—have triggered renewed alarms regarding water safety in the Sun Valley. Data from Children’s Safety Zone shows that in 2025, 77 children under the age of 12 were involved in aquatic incidents across Maricopa and Pinal counties, driving a push for stricter barrier enforcement and designated supervision protocols.

Recent Drownings Highlight Phoenix Pool Risks

A 3-year-old child was found in critical condition in an apartment complex pool near Seventh Avenue and Camelback Road on June 19, according to azcentral. One day later, on June 20, a 1-year-old child died after being found unconscious in a residential backyard pool near 56th Street and Bell Road, azcentral reported.

These incidents align with a broader pattern of aquatic emergencies in the region. Children’s Safety Zone reported 155 total aquatic incidents in 2025 within Maricopa and Pinal counties. Of those, 65 involved children between 0 and 5 years old, while 12 involved children aged 6 to 12.

Did you know? Water safety experts warn that drownings often happen silently and in a matter of seconds, making constant, undistracted supervision the only reliable defense.

What are the legal requirements for pool barriers in Phoenix?

Phoenix law requires all pools, spas, and jacuzzis with a depth of 24 inches or more to have barriers separating them from any residence. According to the Phoenix Fire Department, these requirements vary based on the date of construction but generally include fences at least 5 feet high and gates that close automatically.

Safety trends are shifting toward “layered protection.” The Phoenix Fire Department recommends combining physical barriers—such as safety covers for jacuzzis—with strict behavioral rules. This includes keeping heavy objects like chairs, tables, and bicycles away from the pool edge to prevent children from climbing over fences.

Essential Barrier Checklist

Fence Height: Minimum 5 feet to prevent climbing.
Gate Mechanism: Must be self-closing and self-latching.
Peripheral Clearances: No toys or furniture near the perimeter.
Covering: Use approved safety covers for spas and small pools.

How can parents implement better water supervision?

The Phoenix Fire Department advises against relying solely on swimming lessons or flotation devices. Instead, they recommend the “designated water watcher” system, where one adult is assigned exclusive responsibility for supervising children without distractions.

Current safety guidelines emphasize that children should never be left alone near any water source, including bathtubs, buckets, or toilets. Experts suggest establishing written rules—such as “no running” and “no diving”—and enforcing them strictly to reduce accidental falls into the water.

Pro Tip: When leaving the pool area, always take the children with you and double-check that the gate is latched. Never assume the door closed behind you.

Where can residents access emergency CPR training?

Immediate response is critical during a drowning event. The Phoenix Fire Department instructs bystanders to shout for help, remove the person from the water, call 9-1-1, and begin CPR immediately.

For those untrained in rescue techniques, emergency dispatchers can provide step-by-step CPR instructions over the phone. To gain formal certification, the Phoenix Fire Department provides local training resources, while the American Red Cross offers both online and in-person courses. Additionally, the Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support Training Center provides instructional videos and resources for those seeking advanced certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high must a pool fence be in Phoenix?

According to the Phoenix Fire Department, fences must typically be at least 5 feet high to meet safety requirements.

Do swimming lessons prevent drowning?

While vital, swimming lessons are not a substitute for supervision. The Phoenix Fire Department warns that parents should never rely on lessons or flotation devices alone.

What should I do if I see someone drowning?

Immediately shout for help, remove the person from the water, call 9-1-1, and perform CPR if trained, or follow the instructions of the emergency operator.

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