Florida Leading National Effort to Prevent Child Drowning

The ZAC Foundation’s Executive Director Megan Ferraro joined FOX 35 Orlando to discuss Florida’s groundbreaking Water Safety Strategy and the urgent need for coordinated drowning prevention efforts across the state.

Florida’s Strategic Response

Florida will become the fourth state to develop a comprehensive water safety strategy under the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan, tackling its unique challenges, including extensive access to beaches and waterways and year-round water activities. At the Eatonville meeting, health officials, first responders, families, and policymakers outlined plans for swimming lessons, lifeguard training, pool compliance, and emergency preparedness.

“Prevention is local,” Megan explained. “A parent wants to listen to their pediatrician” about water safety resources in their community.

Moving Forward

Florida’s strategy will be finalized by the end of 2025, with implementation beginning in 2026. 

Learn more about developing regional water safety plans  at watersafetyplan.us. Watch Megan’s full interview on FOX 35 Orlando for more life-saving information.