Water Safe Washington

Drowning is the second leading cause of injury-related death for children ages 5-14, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Sign up your class and receive the water safety lesson plan via email in early spring. 

Classroom Sign Up

Lesson Overview

Water Safe Washington’s standards-based lesson uses engaging teaching videos, group activities, and a comprehension check-up. The Washington Recreational Boating Safety Program’s lesson plan builds water safety knowledge through three lifesaving messages:

1. Wear your life jacket.
2. Reach or throw, but don’t go into the water to help someone.
3. Be cautious of hazards, like cold and moving water.

Family Engagement

To educate and empower families, each student will take home a water safety pledge certificate to share the three lifesaving messages with their loved ones!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the water safety lesson?

The basic water safety lesson takes about 50 minutes, can vary by grade, and can be delivered in one or several segments. The lesson includes grade specific bonus activities: a science experiment, worksheets, coloring contest, craft for bulletin boards and more.

When will I receive the lesson plan and supporting materials?

The lesson will be delivered in early spring via teacher email with an unlimited number of participating classrooms available. Supporting materials are limited—sign up early! They’ll be shipped to classroom teachers by April 20th, while supplies last. 

When should I teach the lesson?

May is a good month to teach the lesson and prepare your students for a water safe summer with water safety education. May 15 has been recognized by the State legislature as Washington State’s Annual Water Safety Day, starting in 2024.

Participating Schools

This map shows which schools have signed up! Is your school listed here? If not, talk to your teacher, or sign up your class today!