- Take swim lessons to build proficiency
- There’s no time like now to learn to swim – and your local facility likely has adult learn-to-swim programs, even for those who fear water
- Work on water survival
- Lifesaving swim movements may be different when you’re fully clothed with footwear
- Never dive or jump into an unfamiliar body of water
- Plan for an accident. Can the person you’re with rescue you from the water and perform lifesaving care? If not, make a plan
- Have your military unit conduct the Army Water Survival Training (AWST) Course annually. Find details in FM 7-22 Holistic Health and Fitness
- Take a safety course before you use any watercraft
- Become a Water Watcher and encourage fellow parents to, as well
- Learn to swim – or become a better swimmer – at your on-post pool or nearby YMCA
- Ensure the proper maintenance of your home swimming pool to keep it safe
- Understand how to keep your friends and Family safe while boating and swimming in lakes and other open water
Since 2020, the Army has lost an average of nine Soldiers a year to off-duty sports, recreation, and physical training mishaps – and boating-related drowning has especially increased for ages 20-24. Together we can drive down that trend.
How to prevent accidents
What you can do now
How to learn more
