To prevent water-related injuries and drowning, seek instruction about safe swimming and follow certain rules. It is important to discuss swimming safety at a young age since drowning is the second most common cause of death in children under 14, according to the Kids Health website.
Drowning Facts
On average, 10 deaths per day occur from drowning in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than one in five drowning victims are children under the age of 14. In 2007, drowning statistics showed that males were more than three times more likely to drown than females.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for water-related injuries listed by the CDC include lack of supervision, no water barriers, lack of life jacket, seizure disorders and alcohol consumption. To reduce risk, the CDC advises swimmers avoid drinking while in the water. Children should be supervised at all times while in the water. Fencing should be placed around pools and life jackets provided to swimmers.
Time Frame
Drowning can happen very quickly. According to the Kids Health website, a person can drown in less than two minutes. Since this does not allow a lot of time for rescue, all individuals in the water should be comfortable swimming on their own. Otherwise, swim lessons should be sought out to gain comfort in the water.
Warning
A riptide can pose a safety issue for swimmers in the ocean. As water builds up on the shore, it moves back into the ocean and can pull you out to sea. According to the Weather Channel, riptide speeds average 1 to 2 feet per second. In the case that you find yourself in a riptide, you should swim with the current and angle your body towards the shore.
Effects
If the person does not die after drowning, long-term physical injury may occur. The lack of oxygen leads to brain damage. Complications from this brain damage may include learning disabilities, memory loss and coma.
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