There is not "always" safety in numbers...

Here's a pool safety tip for you.

Why does a child drown in a residential pool surrounded by 20 adults?  People in a group setting often suffer from role "confusion" and "diffusion", giving them a false sense of security about the situation.  Individuals respond well when they are appointed a responsibility, and clearly understand their role.

We advocate the "pass off" system.  This works well whether at the park or the pool - with 2 people or 10 people. Someone in the group initiates the "pass off" - "You have Tommy watch for the next 60 minutes".  The "watch" person understands the rules - they do not use the rest room, answer their cell phone, or go to the concession stand, while they are on watch.  Depending on the situation.......at a minimum, this means the child is in their visual site at all time. When they need to be relieved, they clearly "pass off" the responsibility to someone else - "you are now on Tommy watch for the next hour".