National Drowning Prevention Alliance reminds people of water safety for the summer
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
The National Drowning Prevention Alliance reminded people of proper water safety in in lakes and rivers in a Facebook post Saturday. The group said it can take as little as one minute for an adult to drown.
According to Stop Drowning Now and the U.S. Fire Administration, drownings are preventable. Around 10 people in the U.S. drown each day, and drownings are the leading cause of death for children four and under.
Open water, such as lakes and rivers, also pose an additional threat due to strong currents, sharp rocks and hard-to-see bottoms that can be dangerous for people jumping in.
For children, it's highly recommended to know how to float and to take swimming lessons. Formal lessons reportedly reduce the risk of drowning by 88%.
Parents are also encouraged to put down any distractions and stay alert when watching their child in water. Parents should be within an arm's reach of any toddler in the water. It is recommended children wear a bright pink or orange swimsuit to make them easier to spot. Additionally, a Coast Guard-approved life vest is recommended for any open water.
The NDPA recommends always swimming with a partner, especially when a lifeguard isn't present. Swimming under the influence also increases the risk of drowning due to substances causing disorientation.
Pool owners are encouraged to have a four-sided fence enclosing the pool to prevent children from falling in or swimming without adult supervision.
