Water Safety Month

If you've ever looked at a map of Florida, you will see a state surrounded by water on three sides with a large lake in the middle. Yeah, you'll still probably see other blue spots from smaller lakes or tributaries and think "duh, I know water safety is important" for obvious areas like the beach, a big lake, or a pool, but what about canals?

Check out this zoomed in view of Palm Beach County, Florida:

Unlike most places in the United States, Florida is not just surrounded by water, it is enveloped with water. Essentially, in Florida, you're just as likely to come across water as you are land (slight exaggeration but you get my point).

Because Florida is known for its picturesque beaches, abundant lakes, and backyard pools, people flock here for relaxation and recreation. The problem is, it also presents risks, particularly for children, individuals with autism, and Alzheimer’s patients. Tragically, water-related incidents are a leading cause of preventable deaths in these vulnerable groups.

911 Dispatchers, especially in places with high concentrations of bodies of water, need to be prepared for quick thinking and skills because it can make the difference between life and death.

Understanding Water Safety Risks

1. Children

   • Florida leads the nation in child drowning deaths for children under five years old (read more about it here). With curiosity and limited awareness of danger, children are naturally drawn to water.

   • Unsecured pools, lack of barriers, or brief lapses in supervision can quickly lead to tragedy.

2. Individuals with Autism

   • People with autism are often drawn to water but may not understand its dangers. Wandering is a common behavior, with a high percentage of incidents ending in water-related fatalities.

3. Alzheimer’s and/or Dementia Patients

   • Wandering is not just commong for individuals with Autism - it affects senior citizens with Alzheimer’s or dementia too. Wandering can lead them to pools, lakes, or other water sources. Individuals with Alzheimer's or Dementia often have cognitive impairments often hinder their ability to assess risks or call for help.

What role does a 911 Dispatcher play during these Water-Related Emergencies?

When a water-related emergency occurs, 911 dispatchers are the first link in the chain of survival. Their ability to gather critical information and provide life-saving instructions is essential.

1. Calming the Caller

   • Emergencies are chaotic, and callers are often distraught. Dispatchers must maintain calm and gain the caller's trust to obtain accurate details.

2. Asking the Right Questions - follow your agency's policy and procedure for water-related incidents.

3. Dispatchers are trained to quickly assess the situation:

   • Who is involved? Is it a child, an individual with special needs, or a senior?

   • What is the individual’s condition—are they unconscious, breathing, or submerged?

   • Where is the incident? A detailed location is critical, especially near large bodies of water.

4. Providing Immediate Instructions

   • Dispatchers guide callers in performing CPR or removing someone safely from the water.

   • If the victim is missing, dispatchers may advise searching nearby water sources, understanding that seconds count.

5. Coordinating Emergency Response

   • Dispatchers relay details to first responders, ensuring they arrive equipped and ready.

   • For individuals with autism or Alzheimer’s, dispatchers may alert responders to approach with care and understanding.

Florida’s water-rich environment demands vigilance from everyone. What experiences have you had with water-related incidents? Let us know in the comments below!