A Pool Fence Could Have Saved Colt—Do You Have One?

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, and unfortunately, I know this all too well.

Our family friend, Colt Catalina, died in a drowning accident when he was two, and it profoundly changed my life. It opened my eyes to the critical importance of pool safety measures, particularly the installation of pool fences. Had there been a fence around the pool he drowned in, Colt would be here today.

Colt was a bright, energetic child who loved nothing more than being outside. Like many families, you don’t think drowning will happen to you. But sometimes the unthinkable occurs. Colt’s accident is etched in my memory—a moment of inattention transformed into a life-altering tragedy.

Despite our best efforts, accidents do happen. Falls into unguarded pools can occur in an instant, and children are often drawn to water without understanding its potential danger. Parents need to recognize that supervision alone isn’t enough. Having a proper barrier in place is vital to prevent access to the pool area.

Pool fences serve as a crucial line of defense. They provide an effective barrier that can significantly reduce the risk of drowning incidents. According to the CDC, a fence that separates the pool from the house and yard can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 83 percent. These fences should be at least four feet high and feature self-closing gates that swing away from the pool. Ensuring the gate’s latch is out of a child’s reach adds an extra layer of security.

But a fence should not be the only safety measure in place. It is essential to teach water safety to children from an early age. Start with survival swimming lessons and emphasize the importance of knowing how to swim, float, and get back to the side of the pool or shore. But remember—nothing replaces adult supervision.

Parents should also consider educating themselves on CPR and first aid. In the event of an emergency, knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in outcomes. Taking a CPR course could equip a parent with the skills to save a life one day.

While my heart aches over the loss of Colt, I urge parents everywhere to take action in his honor. Installing a pool fence is not just a precaution—it’s a necessity.

Sharing Colt’s story and advocating for critical pool safety measures can help prevent other families from experiencing the same heartache. His legacy continues through the Colt Catalina Foundation. Together, we can create a safer environment for our children to enjoy the water while ensuring they are protected from its dangers. Taking proactive steps today can help save a life tomorrow.

For more information, please visit coltcatalinafoundation.com.