WATER SAFETY

The CDC’s Injury Center Uses Data and Research to Save Lives

  • Drowning is a leading cause of death among children.

  • It can happen in seconds and is often silent. Drowning can happen to anyone, any time there is access to water.

  • Deaths among persons with autism spectrum disorder were nearly 40x as likely to be caused by drowning as deaths in the general population (injury mortality in individuals with autism, AJPH).

  • 4,000 people die from drowning each year in the USA – that’s an average of 11 drownings deaths per day.

  • Drowning injuries can also cause brain damage and other serious outcomes, including long-term disability.

Essential Water Safety Tips

Other precautions

  • Wear a life jacket to reduce drowning risk.

  • Know natural water risks at lakes, rivers, and oceans.

  • Avoid alcohol during swimming or boating, or while supervising children.

  • Take medical precautions and be aware of conditions that increase drowning risk.

  • Consider medications and avoid swimming when they affect balance or judgment.

  • Avoid breath-holding as this can cause loss of consciousness.

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