Headsets equipped with WAVE Drowning Detection Technology aim to make drowning more preventable

One Westchester-based swimming program is giving its lifeguards a helping hand, all thanks to new drowning prevention technology.

Students who are a part of Mamaroneck School District's Co-Op Summer Enrichment program are using WAVE Drowning Detection Technology headsets, which alert lifeguards to potentially distressed swimmers.

The headsets directly notify lifeguards if the swimmer goes underwater for too long through a wearable bracelet.

If the swimmer is underwater for more than 30 seconds, an alarm throughout the pool will sound.

"The STEM Alliance learned last year in summer...that children who were very scared in the water were now very willing to go in the water. It seems to provide a sense of confidence that they're being watched," said Margaret Kaufer, with The STEM Alliance and the lead administrator for Co-Op Summer Enrichment Camp.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4.

Just last year, a child nearly drowned while swimming at the Saw Mill Club in Mount Kisco, which eyewitnesses said was packed.