Full Notification

The Tustin Police Department routinely works with the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) on various emergency incidents, one of which is drownings. Unfortunately the number of recent drownings has prompted the OCFA to reach out to the community and heighten water safety awareness. The OCFA provided the following incident information and safety recommendations.

This past year, there have been 11 fatal drownings and 31 non-fatal drownings within OCFA’s jurisdiction. Twenty-two non-fatal drowning victims were male while nine were female.

The heat makes Orange County ripe for tragedy with water. It is critical for adult supervision around any body of water including pools, spas, bathtubs, toilets, and even buckets. If a child is missing or unaccounted for, always check the pool or spa first. Lifeguards, life vests, and even swim lessons are not a substitute for adult supervision.

We recommend that adults and children “always swim with a buddy” – regardless of age and ability of the swimmer. Make sure to always have a “water watcher” around any body of water – do not take your eyes off the water. The “water watcher” strictly watches the water; they are not talking on the telephone, chit chatting with a friend, texting, or reading a book. Knowing CPR and first aid will help in the initial response to an emergency.

“It is extremely difficult for the firefighters to go on a child drowning call,” said OCFA Fire Captain Steve Concialdi. “Adult supervision is so important when you have children in any body of water. Children go under quietly without any action or sound. We can make a difference by having a water watcher at all times while children are swimming.”

These unfortunate tragedies can be prevented. One look away from your child could lead to a lifetime of regret. For more information, visit www.ocfa.org.

See attachment for water safety “ABC’s” and additional tips.