‘The Loss of My Daughter to Drowning Forever Changed My Life’

Dear Friend,

Three years ago, my daughter Dina drowned in a tragic accident, forever changing my life. Now, as a mother on a mission, I’m dedicated to preventing other families from enduring such a devastating loss. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children under five—G-d forbid, it can happen quickly and quietly, even with adults nearby. The CDC reports that 88% of drownings happen with at least one adult present.

To protect our children, we must act decisively. HaRav Yaakov Bender and HaRav Elya Brudny have ruled it a chiyuvto secure pools with proper fencing, eliminate distractions like phones, and utilize life-saving technologies.

I’m dedicated to Team Protect’s mission to provide families with tools and information that offer extra layers of protection. One such tool is the Coral Mylo—a unique AI-powered underwater camera that not only detects when someone enters the pool but also monitors for signs of distress or drowning in real time. It acts as an extra set of eyes—not a lifeguard, but a powerful safety net.

Team Protect has secured a limited and heavily subsidized supply of Coral Mylo for this summer. Nothing replaces full attention or proper fencing, but this device can help prevent tragedy—and I truly believe it could save a life. In fact, we already know of a case where, with Hashem’s help, the Coral Mylo helped save a child’s life.

Here are five key steps every family can take to help prevent pool tragedies:

Active, Constant Supervision
Importance of active supervision. No phones by the pool. Designate one person to watch the pool at all times.

Post Visible Poolside Information
Include emergency contacts (like Hatzolah), your home address, and other critical information.

Set Up the Pool Properly
A fence at least 4 feet tall with self-latching gates is both legally and halachically required in many areas. Never rely on a pool cover alone.

Use Alarms and Detection Tech
Add alarms to pool gates, windows, and doors. Devices like Coral Mylo detect danger before it’s too late.

Clear the Pool Area After Use / Follow Best Practices
Remove toys and floats that may tempt children back to the water. Make sure floating devices are secured before entering the pool. Bright-colored swimsuits also improve visibility.

As part of Team Protect—a coalition of over 25 safety organizations—we’re working to make these tools available to every family who needs them. If cost is a concern, please reach out. We’re committed to helping ensure that no family is left without access to potentially life-saving protection.

In memory of my Dina, let’s come together to make water a source of joy—not tragedy.

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, contact [email protected] or call/text 650-770-9111.

With love,
Sara Dorsky
Parent Ambassador, Team Protect

https://teamprotect.org/solutions/poolsafety/

Sara Dorsky Instagram:
@strong.mama.sara