One method of evaluating drowning prevention efforts focused on the use of life vests (also known as personal flotation devices, PFDs or life jackets), is observation of life vest use on small boats. The observation method was initially developed by students and faculty at the University of Washington. The Washington State Drowning Prevention Network adapted and implemented the observation protocol at sites throughout Washington State. Observations have been conducted in 1992, 1994, 1997 and 2000.
Why?
The information obtained from the observations provide baseline data prior to initiating drowning prevention interventions. Observations conducted after an intervention and compared to the baseline data are one measure of program impact.
How?
In brief, the observations involve one or two volunteers at a site watching for life vest use among children and adults in boats 18 feet or less in length. Using binoculars and special forms to record information, observations include weather and water conditions, number of passengers, life vest use, gender, age and type of boat.
When?
The first observation is conducted on or around opening day of fishing season in late April. All observations are completed by Memorial Day or mid-June at latest. Each site is visited at least four times and observation times are 60-90 minutes each. To maximize the number of observations it is preferable to view boats on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The observations are repeated periodically using the same sites, time of year and procedures to measure change.
Where?
At least four popular recreational boating areas per county or region are selected for observation. The sites should have a lot of small boat traffic, a safe place for an observer to sit and lots of families with children in boats. Selecting sites that families use is particularly important if children are the prime target group.
Who?
Recruit volunteers from drowning prevention coalitions, Coast Guard Auxiliary, US Power Squadrons or scout groups to conduct observations. All observers must receive training prior to the first observation date.
For More Information:
If you are interested in conducting observations in your own county or health district, call the Washington State Drowning Prevention Project at Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Seattle for more information; 206-987-5797. A training kit containing slides and script, handouts, observation forms and a sample spreadsheet to set up a program for data entry and analysis is available for purchase.
Washington State Drowning Prevention Network funded by the Maternal Child Health Bureau and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Emergency Medical Services for Children.