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Irrigation System Drowning Risks

Irrigation systems include more water than most people notice: reservoirs, pits, sumps, ditches and canals. This guide describes the hazards in general terms.

Where are the drowning hazards in an irrigation system?

Irrigation systems include supply ponds, tailwater pits, canals, sumps, tanks and holding basins. Each can have steep sides, slippery surfaces and water deep enough to be dangerous.

Because the systems are built for utility, the sides may be smooth, the access may be limited and fencing may be minimal. Walk your system and list every place where a person could fall in.

Some structures are seasonal. A dry sump or pit in winter can fill during spring runoff or irrigation, so check them again whenever conditions change.

• Reservoirs and holding basins.
• Canals, sumps and tailwater pits.
• Open tanks and sedimentation basins.

Why is climbing out so difficult?

Liners, concrete and steep banks can make it very hard to climb out, even for a strong swimmer. Cold water, heavy clothes and boots add to the problem. A person who falls in may not be able to get out without help.

Because of this, prevention is the main strategy. Barriers, supervision and a clear rule that people stay out of the water make the biggest difference.

Children who fall in a smooth-sided structure may panic. Make sure they know they should never go near the edge to retrieve toys, balls or pets.

• Smooth sides offer no grip.
• Clothing and boots hamper movement.
• Prevention matters most.

What kinds of barriers and access control help?

Fences, gates, covers and warning signs help protect children and visitors. Which design suits your system depends on the type of structure and local rules. Ask your extension office, irrigation district and county officials.

Keep gates closed and locked. Check fences after storms and after heavy equipment work. Make sure access paths for maintenance do not become routes for children.

Keep ladders, planks and other items that children could use to reach water out of the area, and store them where children cannot get them.

• Fence and sign hazardous structures.
• Keep gates closed.
• Inspect barriers after storms.

What about working near pumps and structures?

Maintenance often takes workers near the water. Do not work alone, and tell someone your plan. Follow manufacturer and employer procedures for shutting down and securing equipment before service, and do not guess.

Electrical equipment near water needs special care. Use licensed electricians, and never work on wiring with wet hands or while standing in water.

Check that equipment guards, covers and electrical enclosures are in place before leaving the area. Missing guards invite accidents.

• Use a buddy or check-in system.
• Shut down and secure equipment as directed.
• Use licensed electricians.

How should you plan for emergencies?

Post the farm's address and a clear description of how to reach each water structure. Make sure everyone knows to call 911 and what the location is. Keep a phone nearby, and check where signal is weak.

Do not attempt improvised rescues. Water rescue calls for training and equipment. This article does not give rescue steps. Ask local fire departments and the American Red Cross about training.

Review the plan each season, especially when workers change or when you modify a structure. Update the location descriptions and phone numbers, and walk the route responders would use.

• Post location descriptions.
• Check phone signal at each structure.
• Seek hands-on training.

What should workers and families know?

Brief every new worker and visitor on where hazards are and which areas are off limits. Do not assume prior knowledge. Provide training in the language the worker understands best.

For employer duties, OSHA's agriculture page is a starting point. For youth work rules, confirm with the U.S. Department of Labor.

Remind everyone that a rule is only as strong as the weakest day. Hurry, heat and fatigue are when people take shortcuts, so build the habit of pausing before any task near water.

• Brief new workers on arrival.
• Use a language the worker understands.
• Confirm youth work rules with the Department of Labor.

Where can you find more help?

Extension offices and irrigation districts can give guidance on safe design and operation. The links below lead to general sources. Rules vary by state and district.

Review your system each season and after any change, and share the results with everyone who works on the farm.

Share what you learn with neighbors who run similar systems. Local irrigation districts and extension offices often arrange safety meetings where growers compare practices.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.