West Manatee Fire Rescue Launches Water Watcher Campaign to Prevent Summer Drownings
As families flock to pools, beaches and waterfront destinations this summer, West Manatee Fire Rescue is urging residents and visitors to make water safety a top priority by assigning a designated Water Watcher at every water-related gathering.
The drowning prevention initiative is designed to reduce the risk of water-related tragedies by encouraging adults to take turns serving as a dedicated observer whose sole responsibility is monitoring swimmers. According to West Manatee Fire Rescue Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, drowning incidents happen quickly and often silently, making constant supervision essential.
A Water Watcher is a responsible adult who remains focused on the water without distractions such as cell phones, conversations, grilling or other activities. The role is passed from one adult to another to ensure continuous supervision.
As part of the campaign, West Manatee Fire Rescue is challenging hotels, vacation rental operators, property managers, restaurants, marinas, homeowner associations and community organizations to incorporate Water Watcher badges into their safety practices. The district recommends placing badges at front desks, including them in welcome packets, keeping them near pool entrances, incorporating them into guest safety materials and distributing them at community events.
The initiative reflects the fire district’s commitment to preventing emergencies before they occur and promoting a culture of water safety throughout the community.
West Manatee Fire Rescue also recommends closing and latching pool gates, using barriers and alarms around pools, wearing life jackets when appropriate, learning CPR and knowing the address of a pool, rental property, dock or beach access point before an emergency occurs.
Free Water Watcher badges are available by contacting West Manatee Fire Rescue District at 941-761-1555 or by email at Bureau@wmfr.org. The district also plans to make badges available at the Island Branch Library and the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce office in Holmes Beach.
Additional information about the Water Watcher program and other safety initiatives is available at wmfr.org.
