After the Tragic Loss of Her Son, This Mother is Raising Awareness About Swim Mask Dangers

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In a heart-wrenching story, 6.5-year-old Jacob’s last day of kindergarten turned into a tragedy that no parent should have to endure. Celebrating the end of the school year, Jacob’s family enjoyed a day in their backyard pool. Although Jacob had learned to swim at the age of four, he was anxious about putting his face in the water and preferred using a swim mask.

Jacob’s mother, Sarah Mitchell, shared with us that two adults were supervising him by the pool, but neither noticed when his swim mask filled with water, obstructing his breathing and leading to a drowning within minutes. “I believe he panicked and was unable to remove the mask in time,” Sarah reflects. “Drowning can occur in just 20 to 60 seconds. It’s a terrifying thought.”

Sarah explains, “Since Jacob was afraid of submerging his face, the mask seemed like a solution. But in hindsight, that was a flawed assumption. Swim instructors and parents must understand that young children may not be equipped to handle a flooded mask and should be comfortable removing it underwater.”

It took years for Sarah to publicly share the details of Jacob’s passing. Now, she is determined to inform other parents about the hidden dangers of swim masks and how many are unaware of the risks involved. “Jacob passed away on June 23, 2005. It took me a long time to discuss the specifics, and I realized that mask safety is seldom addressed,” she explains.

Despite the pain of her loss, Sarah’s advocacy aims to prevent similar tragedies. She has collaborated with the National Drowning Prevention Alliance to create an educational video on swim mask safety, set to be presented at their convention in New Orleans on April 17.

The video serves as an essential resource for parents, swim instructors, and caregivers of young children. Dr. Mark Harris, who chairs the International Drowning Prevention Alliance, outlines crucial safety measures, including:

1. Enroll your child in swim lessons from reputable programs like the YMCA, American Red Cross, or other qualified local options.
2. Ensure your child is comfortable underwater before introducing a swim mask. Masks should not be a crutch for comfort in the water.
3. Avoid relying solely on flotation devices for safety.
4. Practice “touch supervision”—never assume poolside supervision is enough, even if your child knows how to swim.
5. Educate yourself on the signs of drowning and learn CPR.
6. Discourage head-first diving with masks or goggles.

The Academy of American Pediatrics recommends beginning swim lessons for children between ages 1 and 3, as drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death in that age group.

After hearing Sarah’s story, I have personally reconsidered allowing my children to use swim masks. While they can be beneficial, proper fit and understanding of safe usage are paramount. In the National Drowning Prevention Alliance video, expert diving instructor Lisa Thompson shares valuable tips for swim mask safety:

• Choose a mask made of silicone, as cheaper alternatives may be made of PVC that can leak.
• A properly fitting mask should pass the “flower sniff” test—inhale gently without air intrusion for a secure seal.
• Ensure the mask isn’t too tight or too loose; it should remain in place when moving your head.

As Sarah poignantly states, “Masks are not toys. They aren’t inherently dangerous, but many children are unprepared to manage a flooded mask and lack comfort swimming without their eyes and nose covered.”

This summer, Jacob would have turned 22 years old. Sarah’s mission is to honor her son’s memory by preventing similar accidents and saving lives. While she cannot bring Jacob back, her efforts to raise awareness about swim mask safety may indeed save a life.

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In summary, Sarah Mitchell’s advocacy for swim mask safety after the tragic loss of her son Jacob serves as a vital reminder for parents and guardians about the potential dangers of swim masks. Her mission is to prevent future tragedies and honor her son’s memory by spreading awareness.