Staff Reports | Community Updates
Seventy‑nine adults and children died from drowning in Maricopa and Pinal counties in 2024, marking the highest number recorded since tracking began in 2005.
In response, Child Crisis Arizona is partnering with Salt River Project, State Farm, the Independent Pool & Spa Service Association Inc. and local firefighter charities to provide free pool fences to eligible families through its fifth annual Pool Fence Safety Program, according to a press release.
Applications are open now through April 5, 2026, for parents or caregivers who are financially unable to afford a pool barrier and have young children living in the home. The program is available to families residing in Maricopa County.
Eligible families must have a child age 6 or younger living in the home, reside in an owner‑occupied residence and meet income‑qualification requirements. Income eligibility may be verified through participation in assistance programs such as food stamps, Medicaid, WIC, energy assistance or unemployment. Families not enrolled in those programs may submit household income documentation, including a 2024 tax return.
Applications are available in English and Spanish on the organization’s website.
“Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 and remains among the top five causes of death for children ages 5 to 9,” said Caitlin Sageng, senior program director at Child Crisis Arizona.
“Child Crisis Arizona is home to Safe Kids Maricopa County, the local chapter for a worldwide organization aiming to prevent childhood injury and death. This Pool Fence Safety Program, which last year between its spring and fall application windows awarded two dozen families a new pool fence, is focused on making an actionable difference in preventing child drownings in our community.”
In addition to installing free pool fences, the program provides water‑safety education for parents and caregivers through a virtual water safety workshop led by a Safe Kids Maricopa County coordinator. The workshop is offered year‑round and is open to all families.
“At SRP, we understand that drownings aren’t limited to the summer months. Pools can be dangerous all year long,” said Rori Minor, community engagement strategist at SRP. “That’s why we continue to support water safety efforts in our community. Child Crisis Arizona has been a great partner in furthering prevention efforts, and we’re proud to support the initiative again as it grows to protect even more families.”
Through its partnerships, Child Crisis Arizona continues to focus on reducing child drownings and expanding access to safety resources for families across Maricopa County.
“State Farm is deeply committed to helping families prevent the unexpected,” said Tyrone Jones, corporate responsibility analyst at State Farm. “Through this partnership, we’re empowering parents and caregivers with peace of mind—knowing their little ones can safely enjoy the Arizona sunshine all year long.”
