As summer draws near, focusing on water safety is imperative.
The CDC reports that drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 14 in the U.S., with about 4,000 fatalities annually. Do you know everything you need to know about keeping you and your family safe this season?
According to Dr. David Rzeszutko, Vice President of Medical and Clinical Operations for Priority Health, one common swimming myth is that you need to wait 30 minutes after eating before swimming.
"While digestion might make you feel slightly sluggish, there's no evidence linking eating to an increased risk of drowning," he said. "Another myth is that 'strong swimmers don't need supervision.' Even experienced swimmers can face unexpected currents or fatigue, which is why vigilance is key regardless of skill level. Additionally, some believe that cold water can cause instant hypothermia. While cold water can be dangerous, hypothermia typically develops gradually with prolonged exposure."
Also worth noting is that 80% of drowning victims are male—a CDC statistic linked to risk-taking behavior. This highlights the importance of constant supervision and education on water safety, especially among children and teens.
"Children should be supervised at all times around water, regardless of their swimming ability," Dr. Rzeszutko explained. "Even just a few inches of water in a bathtub or kiddie pool can pose a drowning risk because young children lack the physical strength and coordination to lift themselves out of water if they slip or fall face-first."
Dr. Rzeszutko says parents should always stay within arm's reach of their children when near water, ensuring they never leave them unattended.
"Setting a rule about no roughhousing in shallow water helps prevent injuries and minimizes the likelihood of accidental submersion," he said.
Another important aspect of being out in the sun is adequate SPF usage—an essential component of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
"Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer," Dr. Rzeszutko shared, noting that water can reflect and intensify UV rays, making it even more important to take sun protection seriously when near or in water. "The American Cancer Society recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapplication is just as crucial—every two hours, and after swimming or sweating—even if the product is water-resistant. Don't forget areas like ears, feet and the back of your neck!"
The CDC also notes that alcohol is involved in up to 70% of drowning incidents among adults.
"Alcohol consumption is a leading factor in water-related accidents, due to impaired judgment, balance and reaction times," Dr. Rzeszutko said. "Avoid drinking alcohol if you plan to swim or operate a boat or other watercrafts."
Ultimately, if you're planning to be out by the water this summer, be sure to take safety seriously.
"Swimming safety is crucial for enjoying the benefits of this wonderful activity," Dr. Rzeszutko shared. "Water safety is about layers of protection—learning to swim, wearing life jackets and staying informed are all critical steps. I encourage families to enroll in swim classes and educate themselves on CPR. Prevention and preparation go a long way in creating happy and safe summer memories."
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
