Drownings in Natural Water Settings - Know the Risks!
There's nothing better than a day at the beach or on the lake. But swimming or boating in a natural body of water can be risky. About half of all drownings occur in natural water settings such as lakes, rivers, or oceans.
Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1 to 14 years, and the fifth leading cause for people of all ages. The highest risk of drowning for both males and females is between ages 1 to 4. After the age of one, however, males account for 88% of all drownings in natural water settings, including while boating.
There are steps you can take to decrease your risk of drowning, including wearing a life jacket, avoiding alcohol, being aware of and avoiding drop-offs and hidden obstacles in natural water settings, and understanding how to swim out of a rip current.
Tips from CDC's Injury Center can put help you know the risks and stay safe while you're enjoying the water.
Be aware of and avoid drop-offs and hidden obstacles in natural water sites. Always enter water feet first.
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