Megan Ferraro Discusses Water Safety Month on NBC10 Philadelphia
As families head into summer and spend more time around pools, beaches, and open water, water safety should remain a top priority. During National Water Safety Month, The ZAC Foundation’s Executive Director Megan Ferraro joined NBC 10 Philadelphia to share important drowning prevention strategies for children, teens, and adults.
Why Water Safety Matters
Megan explained that children ages 1–4 are at the highest risk for drowning, with many incidents occurring in residential backyard pools during unplanned swim time. As children get older, drowning risks often shift to open water environments like oceans, lakes, and rivers.
She emphasized that distractions during gatherings like backyard barbecues and pool parties can quickly become dangerous if children are left unsupervised near water.
Why Layers of Protection are Essential
Megan shared several key water safety reminders for families:
- Never leave children unsupervised near water
- Never swim alone, regardless of age
- Always swim near a lifeguard
- Install four-sided fencing with self-closing gates around backyard pools
- Add door chimes or alarms leading to pool areas
- Wear U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets while boating or in open water
- Learn CPR and enroll children in swimming lessons
“Water safety should become part of our everyday safety rituals, just like wearing a seatbelt or a bike helmet.”
Watch the full interview at nbcphiladelphia.com.