The farm pond has been an important economic unit in many farming programs. Ponds are used as part of a soil and water conservation program to water livestock, as an irrigation water source, and for fire protection and recreation, such as fishing, boating, swimming and ice skating. Unfortunately, farm ponds contribute to accidental drownings. Children are the victims of the majority of farm pond drownings.
Small children get too close to the water and lose their balance on the soft bank.
Many wade in the cool shallow water only to fall into deep holes. Some drown for no apparent reason. Lack of close adult supervision contributes to pond drownings. Adults often overestimate a child's curiosity. A short attention span, coupled with the attractiveness of a farm pond as a play area may render most verbal instructions ineffective.