Megan Ferraro Shares Water Safety Expertise in Pittsburgh

Understanding Drowning Risks This Summer

Megan Ferraro, Executive Director of The ZAC Foundation, recently joined Christian Martin-Gill, MD, professor of emergency medicine and chief of the Division of Emergency Medical Services at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC emergency physician, in an interview with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. They discussed common misconceptions surrounding drowning, the unique dangers of open water, and the steps families can take to stay safe this summer. As more people head to pools, rivers, lakes, and beaches, the experts emphasized the importance of understanding water risks and practicing proven prevention strategies.

Open Water Swimming Dangers: What Every Family Needs to Know

While many people learn to swim in pools, Ferraro explained that open water environments require additional awareness and preparation. Factors such as currents, changing weather conditions, limited visibility, and unpredictable underwater hazards can create dangerous situations—even for experienced swimmers.

Pool Barriers, Life Jackets, CPR: Why Drowning Prevention Requires Multiple Steps

Ferraro encouraged families to think about water safety as a series of layers rather than relying on a single precaution. Active adult supervision, swim lessons, life jackets, CPR training, and barriers around pools all play an important role in reducing drowning risk. She also stressed that water hazards exist everywhere—from pools and lakes to bathtubs and buckets—making vigilance essential at every age.

Read the full article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.