ORANGEVALE, CA – Century Pools, a family-owned gunite swimming pool construction company serving California homeowners since 1964, has announced the launch of Safe Splash, a comprehensive community water safety and conservation education program targeting underserved neighborhoods in Orangevale and surrounding communities.
The initiative, fully funded by Century Pools, will reach approximately 450 students in its first year through partnerships with five local schools, including Oakwood Elementary. The program combines swimming lessons with water conservation education, addressing both safety and environmental responsibility.
“Responsible pool use isn’t just about technology or rules. It’s a mindset,” said Patrick O’Neal, CEO of Century Pools, who has led the company for 15 years. “By instilling that mindset early, we can make both safety and sustainability stick.”
The program was inspired by a childhood memory O’Neal carried for decades. A neighbor’s child had a close call in a backyard pool during a drought year in the 1970s or early 1980s. That memory stayed with him until recent years, when worsening droughts, rising community concern, and growing emphasis on sustainability made launching Safe Splash both feasible and essential.
Comprehensive Curriculum Addresses Dual Priorities
Safe Splash teaches children practical swimming skills, pool safety rules, hazard recognition, emergency response, proper flotation device use, and basic self-rescue techniques. Students also learn water conservation principles and responsible pool management practices.
Schools agreed to participate after Century Pools demonstrated safety credentials through certified instructors, proper supervision, adherence to local pool regulations, and educational value. The company covers all expenses, including instructor fees, pool use, safety equipment, and educational materials, representing hundreds of volunteer hours and tens of thousands of dollars in investment.
Community Pool Renovation Supports Program Goals
Century Pools selected the Oakwood Elementary pool for renovation due to its service to a large number of students in a low-income area. The outdated facility featured leaky plumbing, worn surfaces, an inefficient pump system, and inadequate safety features.
The renovation included high-efficiency pumps, resurfacing for safety and durability, updated safety features, and improved water management systems. The upgraded pool now serves as a venue for Safe Splash lessons and broader school activities.
O’Neal Brothers Continue Family Legacy Through Hands-On Involvement
Patrick, Michael, and Casey O’Neal maintain personal involvement in the initiative, continuing the legacy established by their father, Brian O’Neal, who founded Century Pools and was known for working alongside his crew with a shovel in hand.
Patrick attends lessons, guides instructors, and leads water conservation assessments for families. Michael focuses on community outreach and schedule coordination while volunteering during lessons. Casey assists with pool renovations and safety upgrades and occasionally demonstrates swimming techniques.
The program has already produced unexpected results. One young student correctly guided a younger sibling to use a flotation device and stay safe near the pool after completing Safe Splash lessons, demonstrating real-world impact beyond the classroom.
Future Expansion Plans Prioritize Quality Over Scale
While Century Pools hopes to eventually bring Safe Splash to other California communities, the company prioritizes depth over breadth. Any expansion will be deliberate, replicating the hands-on, community-focused approach established in Orangevale to ensure each participating school or neighborhood receives full attention, proper resources, and measurable results.
“We’re not just building pools. We’re shaping experiences and creating lasting positive impact,” O’Neal said. “That feeling transcends any business metric or financial measure.”
About Century Pools
Century Pools has been building custom gunite swimming pools for California homeowners since 1964. The multigenerational, family-owned company specializes in meticulous construction and personalized service, creating aquatic retreats from celebrity mansions to neighborhood gathering spaces. Headquartered in Orangevale, California, Century Pools continues the O’Neal family legacy of quality craftsmanship and community commitment.
For more information about Safe Splash or Century Pools, visit centurypools.com or contact the company directly.
