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July 22.2025
3 Minutes Read

How the Water Watcher Program Can Help Prevent Summer Drownings

Water Watcher Program announcement with a boy swimming in a pool.

Summer Safety: Preventing Drowning in Our Coastal Community

In Huntington Beach, the sun gleams brightly, the waves crash, and the laughter of families fills the air—these elements create a vibrant beach culture perfect for summer fun. Yet, amid this joy lies a serious concern that requires our immediate attention: safety around water. Recently, at a press conference hosted by Mayor Pat Burns, community leaders urged us to prioritize drowning prevention, emphasizing the importance of active supervision and awareness among parents and guardians.

In 'Live Drowning Rescue Demo and Press Conference on HB Water Watcher Program', the discussion dives into community safety measures, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end.

A Heartbreaking Need for Action

As Mayor Burns pointed out, drowning is a preventable tragedy. One previous summer, the community faced a heart-wrenching incident involving a young child in a spa. Each child's drowning incident has a lasting impact on families and the wider community, igniting a commitment to foster a culture of vigilance and safety. During the press conference, city officials proudly announced zero drownings in the last season through initiatives such as the Water Watcher Program—a proactive measure to safeguard our young swimmers.

Understanding Drowning Risks

Drowning is shockingly the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 4, and with reports of 183 drowning deaths in Orange County from 2020 to 2023, it emphasizes the critical need for collective action. Two major contributing factors to these incidents include a lack of supervision and easy access to pool areas by young children. To combat these hazards, the Water Watcher Program designates one adult to maintain undivided attention on young swimmers, emphasizing accountability within social circles each time families gather by the water.

The Role of the Water Watcher Program

This program is as simple as it is effective. By appointing one adult—ideally someone aged 16 or older—to solely watch the water, the risk of distractions is minimized, helping ensure that children are never out of sight. Each watcher is encouraged to remain within arm's reach of non-swimmers and to take breaks every 15 to 30 minutes, rotating responsibilities among adults. This initiative involves wearing a specially designed card and lanyard, allowing easy identification of the assigned water watcher, making parents aware of the presence of a vigilant supervisor.

Tools for Prevention

Notably, beyond simply assigning a Water Watcher, teaching water safety skills remains vital. Parents should pursue opportunities for water safety training, which includes classes regarding CPR, basic swimming techniques, and rescue strategies. By doing so, they equip themselves with the knowledge needed to respond effectively in emergency situations. Furthermore, creating physical barriers such as safety fences and ensuring pool covers are used when not in operation can significantly reduce accidental drownings.

Inspiring Community Engagement

The pressing message from our local leaders appeals to not only parents but also the entire community to take steps in fostering a shared sense of responsibility for watching over our children at the beach and pool areas. The idea behind this initiative is to create a space where everyone contributes to the safety of others, and it is heartening to note how local surf culture can play a role in engaging residents in this mission.

Looking Ahead: A Summer of Safety

This summer, as we bask in sunshine and ride the waves, let us not forget the importance of keeping our loved ones safe. Encouraging a culture of watchfulness can drastically shift the statistics of drowning incidents in our community, with hopes of attaining another season of zero drownings. It is each person’s investment—whether a surfer, a backyard BBQ enthusiast, or a curious beach-goer—that can lead to a profound change.

Let’s rally behind the Water Watcher Program and ensure that Huntington Beach stands as a beacon for safe, fun-filled summer days.

In conclusion, we want to see each family align with the mayor’s call to action—be a vigilant Water Watcher and help make our beach community safer. The future of our children’s summer fun lies in our hands.

Surf Scene

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08.23.2025

Common Sunscreen Myths Surfers Must Uncover for Better Protection

Update Debunking the Myths Around Sunscreen for Surfers Surfers and windsurfers alike know that the sun can be both exhilarating and dangerous. Yet, despite the undeniable importance of protection against harmful UV rays, misinformation about sunscreen abounds. As part of our commitment to safety and well-being in the surf community, let’s unravel the truths behind common sunscreen myths that could impact your next ride. Myth 1: All Sunscreens Are the Same One of the biggest misconceptions is assuming all sunscreens offer equal protection. In reality, sunscreens vary widely in their ingredients, SPF levels, and whether they provide broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB rays. For surfers repeatedly exposed to the sun, it’s crucial to choose a high-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen to ensure proper skin protection. Myth 2: You Don't Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days Even on overcast days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds, making it essential to apply sunscreen regardless of the weather. For avid surfers hitting the waves, the sun's harmful rays can be just as potent when hidden behind a gray sky. Don’t take the chance—lather up before you paddle out! Myth 3: Spray Sunscreens Are Just as Effective as Creams While spray sunscreens can be convenient for quick application, research shows that they may not provide as complete coverage compared to lotion-based products. Surfers should opt for creams or lotions and ensure they apply an adequate amount, covering all exposed skin, to maximize protection while enjoying the surf. Understanding Ingredients: What’s in Your Sunscreen? Knowing what’s in your sunscreen can be as important as its SPF rating. Avoid products containing harmful chemicals like oxybenzone which can also contribute to coral bleaching—a critical concern for those who care about the oceans we love to surf. Instead, look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are effective and ocean-friendly. Staying Safe in the Surf: The Bigger Picture Understanding sunscreen isn’t just about preventing sunburn; it’s an important aspect of preserving our skin's health and the ecosystem of the waters we cherish. As we become more informed, we can make better choices—not only for ourselves but for our ocean environment as well. Let’s challenge the misconceptions, share accurate information, and foster a healthier surf culture. Take Charge of Your Skin Health! Next time you hit the waves, don’t forget the importance of choosing the right sunscreen. Dive deeper into the topic and check product labels—your skin deserves the best protection. Embrace the surf, equipped with knowledge, and let’s keep our community safe and aware!

08.21.2025

Embracing Safety: The HBPD Bike Helmet Giveaway in Huntington Beach

Update A Heartwarming Initiative from the Huntington Beach Police Department On a sunny day in Huntington Beach, local families gathered with excitement for a special helmet giveaway organized by the Huntington Beach Police Department (HBPD) and the Office of Traffic Safety. With over 250 helmets available, the initiative aimed to ensure that safety on bicycles, skateboards, e-bikes, and scooters is accessible to everyone—especially those who might not be able to afford proper gear.In HBPD Bike Helmet Giveaway, the event highlights community effort toward bicycle safety, inspiring deeper exploration into local initiatives. Why Helmets Matter: Safety First Safety should always be a top priority, especially in a community like Huntington Beach, where outdoor activities are an integral part of the lifestyle. The new helmets provided by the HBPD come packed with features designed for safety and comfort. With adjustable straps, chin straps, and even lights for nighttime visibility, these helmets not only cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts but also demonstrate the thoughtfulness that went into selecting them. As one young participant said, "My helmet was broken; this new one is perfect timing!" This sentiment echoes the importance of accessibility to safety gear. The event didn’t just serve the need for helmets, but also helped foster connections within the community, where safety is a shared commitment. Meeting Community Needs: More Than Just Helmets The event also featured helmets in varying colors and styles, appealing to different preferences among the attendees. Providing options ensures that individuals don’t just receive safety gear but also feel good wearing it. The creativity of the choices reflects the vibrant spirit of Huntington Beach—a place where personal expression thrives amidst a culture of safety and community. Beyond giving away helmets, the HBPD initiative stands out as a model for how local organizations can come together to promote safety and well-being. These types of grassroots efforts strengthen the bonds within the community, making Huntington Beach not just a beautiful coastline, but a place where residents take care of one another. Future Safety Events on the Horizon This helmet giveaway was made possible through grant funding, and although it was a one-time event for this cycle, there is hope for future giveaways. The HBPD is ramping up efforts to secure more funding, promising that another event will occur at the end of the year or early next year. This proactive approach ensures that the commitment to community safety continues, reflecting a cycle of care and responsibility. Parents and participants expressed their appreciation, noting how timely these events can be. “It’s nice that they are giving out the helmets for the kids,” one parent commented, underlining the ongoing need for safety measures as children grow. Creating Community Connections Through Safety This helmet giveaway goes beyond simply passing out gear; it cultivates community spirit. Encouraging kids to ride safely while also allowing them to connect with members of their community represents an ideal approach to fostering responsibility from an early age. The smiles on the kids' faces as they choose their new helmets embody the joyful essence of local surfing culture merged with safety initiatives. The Joy of Giving Back: Personal Anecdotes Many attendees shared personal stories at the event—like the boy who quipped, "I just want a new one just in case my other one breaks!" These anecdotes enrich the narrative of community engagement, connecting the youth to the essence of communal support. The act of giving back creates a safe environment, reminding families that they’re not alone in their pursuit of adventure on the surf and streets of Huntington Beach. The Path Ahead: Embracing Safety Culture As we look forward, this initiative by the HBPD serves as a reminder that community safety is a shared journey. The commitment to equip residents with essential safety gear is reflective of the local spirit that thrives on cooperation. The importance of supporting one another cannot be overstated, especially in a place that prides itself on unity and positivity. To help make safety a continued priority, residents are encouraged to stay tuned for future events and support local programs that promote healthy lifestyles and safe practices in our beloved beach town.

08.21.2025

Gentrification in Surf Towns: Costa Rica's Changing Landscape for Surfers

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