Huntington UFSD Implements New Water Safety Law
September 15, 2026
A new law, Education Law section 926 became effective July 1. It required school districts to provide information on water safety to parents/guardians. Specifically, the law requires school districts to provide information at the beginning of the 2026/27 school year to parents/guardians, either electronically or via written materials, regarding drowning prevention, water safety, and safe and healthy swimming.
After the beginning of the new school year, the information is to be provided to parents/guardian of any new enrollees, or to the student if aged 18 or older. Additionally, the school district must provide this information on the district’s website in a visible location.
Tips for Everyone
• Always swim with someone else and keep an eye on each other.
• Pay extra attention to your children around water.
• Consider your health. Medical conditions like a seizure disorder or heart condition can put people at greater risk of drowning.
• Avoid water that is greater than chest deep if you can’t swim.
• Don’t use alcohol or drugs if you plan to swim.
• Do not dive into water unless you know it is at least eight feet deep.
• Pay attention to the weather. Never swim during a storm or when you see lightning
• The safest place to swim is at a public beach or at a pool with lifeguards.
Know the Signs of Drowning
• Each year, hundreds of New Yorkers drown. It can happen to anyone, anywhere there is water. Drowning occurs quickly and silently. Someone drowning may appear to be splashing or waving when they are struggling to stay afloat.
• Reduce your risk. Learn basic swimming skills. Consider taking a CPR class. Rescue breathing, first aid, and calling 911 could save a life.
Keep Kids Safe
• Kids and teens have the greatest risk of drowning. Always keep little ones within arm’s reach, even in the shallow end.
• Lifeguards and life jackets don’t take the place of close adult supervision. Keep kids away from the pool by putting up a strong fence with a locked gate.
Stay Healthy
• Germs can spread through water. Avoid getting sick by not swallowing water and rinsing off before and after you swim. Never swim in cloudy or discolored water.
• Stay out of the water if you are sick with diarrhea, or if you have open cuts or wounds. Don’t pee or poop in the water. Take children on frequent bathroom breaks.
When Boating
• Always follow safe boating practices and wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved (I-III label) life jacket. Air-filled swimming aids, like water wings and floats, should never be used.