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.
Learn More
SD Swims Grant Program
Application Period Is Open for Spring 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 those individuals 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!
Download & Share
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
SD Swims Grant 2026
Application period has opened for Spring 2026 SD Swims Grant requests. Details and Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe05Tu-oUKI5z12FX9lc5yNQiUd-txB-8pcmx9qOzmx2u8B2g/viewform
Read More
2025: A Year of Impact, Action, and Community Connection
As the season comes to a close, we’re reflecting on an incredible year of progress, partnerships, and prevention. Thanks to the dedication of our partners, volunteers, donors, and community supporters, the Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego (PDFSD) continues to make a measurable difference — helping more children and families access swim lessons, learn water …
Read More
2025 Water Safety Literacy Outreach
Everyone can make a difference in water safety and drowning prevention (in and out of the water)! Why Water Safety Books Matter? Books open the door to important conversations that can help keep kids safer. We are thrilled to announce the eight books below for our 2025 Book Safety Literacy Outreach program! Water Safety books …
Read More