Why Arizonans must designate ‘water watchers’ at public pools, too

Marc Lamber

Submitted photo/Lamber Goodnow

This summer, a child tragically drowned during a private, after-hours event at a Chandler public pool — despite 18 lifeguards on duty. It’s one of 31 water-related deaths in Maricopa and Pinal counties this year alone, including one older child, one teen and 25 adults. Last year saw the highest number of under-fives drowning deaths in over a decade. 

We’ve long warned parents to watch their children near backyard pools. But this year makes it painfully clear: we must treat public pools with the same level of caution.

The dangers don’t stop at the gate

It’s easy to assume that a public pool, especially one staffed with trained lifeguards, is safe enough. But even professional supervision can’t substitute for active, vigilant guardians.

Let’s be clear: lifeguards are not babysitters. Their job is to scan dozens, sometimes hundreds, of swimmers. They can’t possibly watch your child and other loved ones as closely as you can.

The law requires more than a fence

In Arizona, pool safety laws focus heavily on private pools. For example, homeowners must install pool fencing if a child under six lives in the home. But legal responsibility doesn’t end with property lines.

If your child is injured in a public pool, questions of liability can get murky, especially if supervision was lacking, safety procedures were ignored or maintenance was negligent.

Safety is a shared job

Whether you’re at a neighborhood pool, city facility or hotel resort, here are some reminders:

• Designate a “water watcher.” This adult should do nothing but watch the pool for short, 15-minute shifts. No phones, no distractions.
• Check gate locks and latches regularly. This can help ensure all safety and security devices are functioning properly.
• Don’t rely on floaties. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that floaties do not prevent drowning and can easily slip off. Water wings provide a false sense of security. 
• Know CPR. Seconds matter. If you’re watching a child in the water, knowing how to respond while waiting for paramedics can mean the difference between life and death.

Don’t wait for a headline to act

Every drowning leaves behind more than heartbreak. It leaves questions: What did we miss? Could we have done more?

Let’s stop asking those questions after the fact. Whether you’re visiting a friend’s home pool, taking a staycation or heading to a city aquatic center, stay vigilant. Don’t assume someone else is watching. Be the person who’s watching. 

Editor’s note: Marc Lamber is a director at the Am Law 200 firm Fennemore and chairs the Personal Injury Practice Group. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.