Water Safety Tips for Safer Summer Parties on Long Island

Summer on Long Island means outdoor fun—from backyard barbecues in Garden City to birthday celebrations near the pools of Suffolk County or lakeside gatherings around the Carmans River. But anytime a pool or body of water is nearby, even if no one plans to swim, it’s important to take a few extra steps to help guests feel safe and at ease.   

According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 4 and remains one of the top risks for kids under 14. What many families don’t realize is that the majority of child drownings happen during non-swim times—like backyard BBQs, birthday parties, or casual hangouts where no one is expected to be in the water. 

The National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) reports that 69% of young children who drown were not expected to be in the water at the time, and 88% were under adult supervision. When everyone assumes someone else is watching, that’s when mishaps can occur. 

If you’re planning your next Long Island summer party—whether it’s a poolside event in Levittown or a lakeside gathering near the North Shore—these safety guidelines from Saf-T-Swim can make sure your party is fun, safe, and stress-free. 

Before the Party: Set the Stage for Safety 

• Secure the pool area. Use barriers like self-latching gates, pool covers, or temporary fencing to keep unsupervised kids from accessing the water. 

• Share expectations early. If swimming isn’t part of the plan, let guests know in the invitation—and again when they arrive—that the pool will be off-limits. 

• Remove temptations. Put away floats, toys, and other poolside items that may attract curious kids. 

• Use visual reminders. “No Swimming” or “Pool Closed” signs can help reinforce your safety message with a quick glance. 

During the Party: Stay One Step Ahead 

• Designate a Water Watcher. Even if no swimming is planned, assign an adult to keep eyes on the pool area at all times. No distractions—just active supervision. Take turns every 15–30 minutes to keep everyone fresh and focused. 

• Control access points. Lock doors leading to the pool or set alarms so you're alerted if someone heads toward the water. 

• Know your headcount. Keep tabs on who’s at the party, especially young children, and check in regularly to make sure no one has wandered. 

• Set up a check-out system. Ask parents to touch base with the host before leaving. It’s a simple way to make sure no child is unintentionally left behind. 

• Keep adult areas safe, too. Limit alcohol near the pool to prevent accidents like stumbling into the water or forgetting to close a gate. 

Emergency Prep: Be Ready—Just in Case 

• Have rescue gear within reach. Keep a life ring, shepherd’s hook, or reaching pole by the pool—even if no one plans to swim. 

• Keep a phone close and charged. Quick access to 911 can make all the difference in an emergency. 

• Learn CPR. Hosting near water? Knowing how to perform CPR on adults and children could save a life. 

Whether you're hosting a backyard bash in Nassau or a beachside BBQ on the South Shore, just a little preparation can make your summer celebration both fun and safe. Because when everyone feels protected and welcome, your party becomes something truly memorable. 

Make Every Long Island Summer Safer—Start Swim Lessons Today 

Equip your family with the skills they need to stay safe around pools, bays, and beaches. Enroll in swim lessons at Saf-T-Swim, Long Island’s trusted name in swim education.
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