As travelers continue to seek getaways by pools, lakes, and beaches, Airbnb has introduced a new in-app water safety feature designed to educate guests and promote responsible stays near water.
This feature, developed in collaboration with Safe Kids Worldwide, provides guests with expert water safety tips and suggested questions to ask their hosts about a listing’s safety protections. The initiative comes as demand for waterfront properties continues to rise, particularly during peak travel seasons like Labor Day.
Once a guest books a listing with a pool or access to water, the in-app experience will share essential guidance, including:
- Never swim alone, especially in unfamiliar waters.
- Review water depth, layout, entry points, signage, and rescue equipment.
- Learn emergency procedures and keep emergency contacts handy.
- Avoid alcohol or drug use around water activities like swimming or boating.
Airbnb also prompts guests with key questions to discuss with their host—such as safety equipment availability, pool or waterfront access points, and local water-related rules or hazards.
“While water safety incidents during stays in Airbnb listings are incredibly rare, we want guests to feel confident and prepared. This new product is designed to keep guests informed and better equipped to stay safe around water.”
said Tara Bunch, Airbnb Global Head of Operations
“Drowning can happen quickly and silently—yet it’s preventable. Families should always make a water safety plan before they travel. That’s why we’re excited to partner with Airbnb to give families the tools they need to keep kids safe while having fun.”
Torine Creppy, President of Safe Kids Worldwide, emphasized the importance of proactive planning:
This latest feature builds on Airbnb’s longstanding efforts to prioritize water safety. The platform has previously run pool safety campaigns, partnered with experts to educate hosts, and even worked with U.S. companies to provide discounted pool fences—shown by the CDC to reduce child drowning risk by 83%.
With this new addition, Airbnb aims to give travelers peace of mind and the resources they need to create safe, memorable waterfront stays.
