Amber Smith has partnered with the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) to raise awareness about water safety and drowning prevention following the tragic loss of her 3-year-old son, River, in a drowning incident in 2019. Drowning is the leading cause of death among children ages 1-4, with nearly 70% of toddler drownings occurring during non-swimming times. The Smith family experienced a parent’s worst nightmare when River slipped through a locked fence surrounding their pool and ultimately lost his life despite efforts to revive him. This heartbreaking experience has motivated the Smiths to advocate for multiple layers of water safety measures to protect children near bodies of water.
The NDPA CEO, Adam Katchmarchi, stresses the importance of a holistic approach to water safety, including barriers, alarms, supervision, lifeguards, and proper CPR training in case of emergencies. He emphasizes the necessity of teaching children water competency and enrolling them in swim lessons through the First Sport campaign. The stigma around children’s drowning deaths adds an additional layer of complexity, with parents often unfairly judged as “bad parents” following such tragedies. The Smiths are committed to honoring River’s memory by promoting water safety and encouraging parents to take proactive steps to prevent drowning incidents.
Amber Smith acknowledges the false sense of security provided by certain flotation devices, such as Puddle Jumper arm floats, and advocates for teaching children essential water survival skills instead. The Smiths have enrolled their children in swim lessons from a young age, with their son Maverick starting lessons at just 8 months old. Despite the emotional challenges of witnessing her children learn to swim, Smith believes it is crucial to equip them with the necessary skills to survive in the water. The First Sport campaign aims to address the shortage of swim instructors and emphasize the importance of early swim instruction for children.
As the Smith family continues to heal and navigate their grief, they strive to honor River’s memory by promoting water safety awareness and prevention efforts. They remember River on his birthday each year and find ways to give back to others in his honor. By sharing their story and advocating for water safety measures, the Smiths hope to prevent other families from experiencing the devastating loss they have endured. Through initiatives like the First Sport campaign, they aim to raise awareness about drowning prevention and empower parents to take proactive steps to keep their children safe in and near the water.
The impact of River’s tragic drowning serves as a stark reminder of the swift and silent nature of such incidents, with drowning being preventable through proper safety measures and supervision. The Smiths encourage parents to prioritize water safety, including barrier systems, access restrictions, and swim lessons for children. By sharing their story and partnering with the NDPA, they hope to prevent future tragedies and raise awareness about the importance of water safety education. The First Sport campaign serves as a poignant tribute to River’s memory and a call to action for parents to prioritize their children’s safety in and around water.
