Did you know?
- In the US, an average of 3,500 to 4,000 people drown per year. That is an average of 10 fatal drownings per day.
- Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4.
- Drowning remains the second leading causes of unintentional injury-related death from youth 5-15 years old.
- 80% percent of child drownings happen in a residential pool while an adult was present.
- Drowning is the cause of death for most boating fatalities.
- Children younger than one-year-old are more likely to drown at home, in a pool, bathtub, pond, or bucket of water.
- 87% percent of drowning fatalities happen in home pools or hot tubs for children younger than 5. Most take place in pools owned by family or friends.
- Children 5 to 17 years old are more likely to drown in natural water, such as ponds or lakes.
Washington State Department of Health offers these Important water safety tips
- Wear a life jacket. Life jackets reduce the risk of drowning for people of all ages and swimming abilities.
- Learn basic swimming and water safety skills. Swim lessons early and often teach children the skills needed to stay safe while in and around the water.
- Be aware of the dangers of cold water and currents. When the weather warms up, the water can be cold and fast-moving from melting mountain snowpacks.
- Go to a pool, it’s the safest place to swim. Local health departments inspect pools, hot tubs, and splash pads regularly to ensure health and safety.
- Never swim while sick and take kids on frequent bathroom breaks. Although chlorine kills most germs within minutes, some parasites can survive more than 7 days.
- Avoid distractions when children are swimming or around water. Adults should supervise children anytime they are in or around water. Supervision requires complete attention, even if another adult or lifeguard is present.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and using cannabis when swimming or boating. Alcohol and cannabis impair judgment, balance, and coordination.
- For more information on how alcohol can affect water safety. Use this resource from The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Risky Drinking Can Put a Chill on Your Summer Fun
Life Jacket Loaner Program is offered through Washington State Parks. You can visit a life jacket loaner station and borrow an infant, youth and/or adult life jacket for the day or the weekend at no charge. To learn more and to find a Life Jacket Loaner Station visit: Life Jacket Loaner Program | Washington State Parks
Helpful Links
Pool Safety:
Pool Safety | Washington State Department of Health
Pool Safety for Children:
Pool Safely Shares a fun app for kids on how to stay safe around pools
Lake, River, & Beach Water Safety:
Water Safety for Lakes, Rivers, and Beaches | Washington State Department of Health
Lake and River Swimming Safety Pamphlet
For Adults:
Special Needs Adaptive Aquatics - Stop Drowning Now
Swimming Safety Tips | Safe Kids Worldwide
Prevent the tragedy of drowning by implementing 5 layers of protection
Other Things to Consider
Key Summer Safety Reminders:
✅Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, especially if you are outdoors or active.
✅Use sunscreen. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours.
✅Avoid peak sun exposure (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) and seek shade when possible.
✅Never leave children or pets in vehicles. Temperatures inside can rise dangerously fast.
✅Practice safe grilling. Keep grills away from buildings and flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
✅Swim smart. Supervise children near water, wear life jackets when boating, and know local conditions.
✅Prevent heat-related illness. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and act quickly if symptoms appear.
Outdoor Work & Play Tips:
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. It helps your body stay cool.
Use insect repellent to avoid bites from ticks and mosquitoes.
Check local fire restrictions before starting campfires or using fireworks.
Resources:
National Fire Protection Association- The Risk of Electric Shock Drownings in Marinas and Pools
Red Cross- Water Safety
CDC- Preventing Heat Related Illness
Enjoy your summer safely- stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay alert!
