Suffolk County has introduced its first comprehensive drowning prevention action plan in response to a significant increase in drownings, particularly among young children. The initiative is the result of collaboration between The ZAC Foundation, Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, Stop Drowning Now, and input from over 30 local stakeholders.
The county experienced a 60% rise in drownings from 2023 to 2024, with many incidents involving children and occurring in backyard pools. In 2024, New York State recorded 84 drowning fatalities, with Suffolk County accounting for 24 of those deaths. The new plan aligns with the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan and focuses on evidence-based practices.
Stony Brook Medicine is conducting a study of incident data to better understand drowning risks. Efforts also include partnerships with local school districts to provide water safety education and learn-to-swim programs for students, starting at The Three Village School camps this summer. Additionally, the Suffolk County Drowning Prevention Alliance is working with Airbnb to share water safety best practices with hosts and communities as part of Airbnb’s national pool safety initiatives.
Karen Cohn, Co-Founder of The ZAC Foundation, stated: “Drowning prevention requires coordinated community action, which is exactly what this plan delivers. Suffolk County’s alarming drowning statistics underscore the urgent need for this comprehensive approach. We are proud to join forces with our partners in Suffolk County to help turn the tide on drowning and save lives.”
Dr. Jacqueline Bober, DO, Pediatric Emergency Medicine physician at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital said: “This action plan was much needed in Suffolk County, and it’s a privilege to contribute our expertise to protect children and families in the community. We are committed to this initiative and will continue to do everything we can to prevent drownings.”
Jamie Ryan, BSN, RN, CPN, an Injury Prevention Professional at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital added: “This plan takes us beyond awareness and into real action. By breaking down silos and joining forces, we can make a greater impact and prevent drownings across our community.”
Bobby Hazen, Executive Director of Stop Drowning Now and Founding Member of NY Water Safety Coalition noted: “Drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of death in children ages 5-14. Also, 54% of adults do not know how to swim. Drowning is 100% preventable if people follow the layers of protection and can get the water safety education they need. We are proud to be a part of this Suffolk County Water Safety Action Plan team. Through this plan, we will help reduce drowning in Suffolk County.”
More information about the Suffolk County Drowning Prevention Action Plan can be found online.