Our Important Mission
Saving Lives
Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego believes that drowning is preventable and it is our mission to engage the community in a continuum of water safety programs and initiatives that provide access to the life-saving skill of swimming.
Since 2009, our purpose has been simple, we do everything we can to prevent drowning by spreading awareness and funding swim lesson programs for targeted individuals who have limited access to gaining the life-saving skill.
With our local school, community, and aquatic partners, we have impacted tens of thousands of young people in San Diego County and made their lives safer and more enjoyable.
How can you help? We invite you to support our vision by donating, volunteering, and helping us spread the word to save lives!
Donate TodayAnnouncements
Helping Our Community
Book Pool Project
2025 Book Pool List
We are excited to share our 2025 Book Pool List with more than 50 recommended children’s books that spark important conversations about water safety. From pool days to beach trips to boat rides, these stories help build a culture where every child grows up “water smart” and every family can enjoy the water with confidence. Books open the door to meaningful discussions that can keep kids safer in and around water.
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SD Swims Grant Program
Application Period Is Open for Fall 2026
PDFSD is looking for local schools and local pools to collaborate in providing swim lessons and water safety programs in areas throughout San Diego County, targeting 5th grade classrooms who have limited access to gaining the life-saving skill of swimming. Apply now!
Apply Now
California Water Safety Strategy
Working together for a California where everyone is safe in and around the water.
Working together for a California where everyone is safe in and around the water.
The CA-WSS aims to reduce drowning and aquatic injuries by fostering collaboration amount local communities, government agencies, and organizations. Learn more about this important strategy and what can be done in your local community to make California safer TOGETHER!
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Drowning Statistics
PDFSD
Community Partners
Impacts For 2025
National & Community Partnerships – Partnered on the World’s Largest Swim Lesson, hosted Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day, and supported AB 1005 advocacy events.
PDFSD
Recent News
Supporting Water Safety with Oceanside Parks & Recreation
We recently provided a community water safety presentation for the Oceanside Parks & Recreation staff. It was a great opportunity to connect with the team who works directly with youth and families across the community. We shared key drowning prevention strategies and practical ways to reinforce safe behaviors around pools and open water. When recreation …
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A Stronger, Safer Community: Thank You, IPSSA
We are deeply grateful to the Independent Pool and Spa Service Association (IPSSA), San Diego Chapter, for their generous $20,000 donation in support of drowning prevention and water safety education. Their continued partnership allows the Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego to expand access to swim lessons and water safety programs for youth — especially …
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SD Swims Grant Recipients Announced for Spring 2026
We are excited to announce the SD Swims Grant recipients for Spring 2026, continuing our mission to prevent drowning by expanding access to swim lessons and water safety education for students across San Diego County. Through the SD Swims Grant Program, schools apply for grant funding and partner with local pools to provide swim lessons …
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