Glossary
National Water Safety Month
May in the United States: a month to remind families, before summer, that drowning is preventable.
National Water Safety Month is held every May in the United States, just before the summer swim season. The American Red Cross (opens in a new tab) uses it to remind families that drowning is preventable, yet remains one of the leading causes of death for young children and people under 30, and that it is often silent and can happen in less than a minute.
The Red Cross's 2026 reminders:
- nobody should ever swim alone, adults and teens as well as children;
- never leave a young child unattended near water, and don't trust a child's life to another child;
- always name a water watcher who keeps constant attention on children and weaker swimmers;
- young children and inexperienced swimmers should wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, but don't rely on life jackets alone;
- reach or throw, don't go.
It is a good time for schools and community groups to teach a lesson, such as the Red Cross's free WHALE Tales (opens in a new tab) for grades K-5. April, just before it, is Adult Learn-to-Swim Month (U.S. Masters Swimming (opens in a new tab)). See free lesson plans and how to host a workshop.
What you can do today: pick one activity for next May and put it on your calendar.