Drowning prevention tips for those in, around water

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – According to the CDC, drowning is the second leading cause of death among children under 14 years old.

In the last 72 hours, there have been more than five reports on drowning victims in the state of Georgia.

For every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency care for nonfatal submersion injuries.

Aquatic’s Club Director Jason Swaim says it’s important for parents or guardians to watch young ones in the pool.

Swaim also says the number of people drowning while swimming, boating, fishing and hunting in Georgia has been on the rise since last year.

“They haven’t had access to water with their parents. You have to make a conscious decision to have them in water and around water so they know the dangers,” Swaim said.  

The majority of drownings in recreational water use in Georgia in recent years were age 35 males or younger.