Water Safety Information
Water Safety Information
Pursuant to New York State Education Law §926, the Pocantico Hills Central School District provides information regarding drowning prevention, water safety, and safe and healthy swimming and makes this information available to all families and students age 18 or older.
Water Safety Information for Families
The Pocantico Hills Central School District is committed to promoting the health, safety, and well-being of all students.
In accordance with New York State Education Law §926, families are encouraged to review the following information regarding drowning prevention, water safety, and safe and healthy swimming practices.
Why Water Safety Matters
Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental injury and death among children and young adults. Most drowning incidents are preventable through proper supervision, swimming skills, and safe behaviors around water.
Children should be taught water safety at an early age and supervised whenever they are near pools, lakes, rivers, beaches, ponds, or other bodies of water.
Important Safety Tips
Always Supervise Children
- Never leave children unattended near water.
- Designate a responsible adult as a "Water Watcher."
- Avoid distractions such as cell phones, reading, or conversations while supervising swimmers.
- Young children should always remain within arm's reach of an adult.
Learn to Swim
Swimming lessons are one of the best ways to reduce the risk of drowning.
Families are encouraged to:
- Enroll children in age-appropriate swim lessons.
- Practice water safety skills regularly.
- Reinforce safe behaviors around water.
Wear Life Jackets
Use properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when:
- Boating
- Fishing
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Participating in water recreation activities
Inflatable toys and pool noodles are not substitutes for life jackets.
Swim in Safe Areas
- Swim only in designated areas.
- Follow posted rules and warning signs.
- Swim where lifeguards are present whenever possible.
- Never swim alone
Be Aware of Weather Conditions
- Exit the water immediately if thunder or lightning is present.
- Avoid swimming during severe weather.
- Follow lifeguard instructions and beach advisories.
Pool Safety
Home pools should:
- Be surrounded by fencing and self-latching gates.
- Have locked access when not in use.
- Be maintained according to all safety requirements.
Children should never have unsupervised access to pools or spas.
Emergency Preparedness
Families are encouraged to:
- Learn CPR.
- Teach children how to call 911.
- Discuss emergency procedures before water activities.
Additional Resources
Families may obtain additional water safety information from:
New York State Department of Health
Water Safety Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Drowning Prevention Resources
American Red Cross
Swimming and Water Safety Programs
Local Community Programs
Contact local recreation departments, YMCAs, swim schools, or community organizations regarding swimming lessons and water safety instruction.
Translation Services
Translation of this information may be requested through the District Office in accordance with New York State Education Law §926.
Contact Information
Pocantico Hills Central School District
599 Bedford Road
Sleepy Hollow, New York 10591
Phone: (914) 631-2440
Questions regarding this information may be directed to the District Office.