With the recent drowning deaths of three brothers in Lake Houston this month, the spotlight has been shed on water safety and drowning prevention.

According to the most recent statistics by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2005 there were 3,582 unintentional drownings in the United States, averaging 10 deaths per day.

At left, Zachary Crocker, 4, of Magnolia cools off at the Tomball City Pool on Ulrich Rd. Photo by Holly Dutton

More than one in four fatal drowning victims are children 14 and younger, and males were four times more likely than females to die from unintentional drowning in the U.S.

“Constant supervision, that’s the key to preventing accidents,” said Kira Sears, program coordinator at the Magnolia/Tomball YMCA.

Sears said the two biggest problems people run into in the water is swimming alone —even adults and proficient swimmers — and not re-hydrating yourself properly, especially in the summer heat.

“That’s why we have adult swim breaks at the community pools, so people can re-hydrate and take a bathroom break,” she said.

Life jackets are also key to preventing drowning, she said. Coast Guard regulated life jackets with pillows on the back allow a child’s head to rest so it doesn’t have to be held up.

Sears also said that swim lessons, which the Magnolia/Tomball YMCA offers for persons from six-months-old to seniors, are important to prevention.

“Our swim lessons have gotten a lot of positive feedback,” she said.

Whether it be at the lake, the beach or the pool, parents and children should always take precaution.

“Knowing your abilities helps,” said Sears.

She also suggested leaving several conventional swimming devices at home, including inflatable floatation devices. The devices can work against you, Sears said, because they can deflate, leaving the swimmer without any protection. Stick with Coast Guard approved life jackets and make sure to stay hydrated.

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