Drowning risks rise with warmer weather; experts urge early swim lessons

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- With warmer weather approaching, pools and lakes across the Triangle will soon fill with swimmers. But before families head to the water, safety advocates have an important reminder: May is National Water Safety Month, and preparation can save lives.

The American Red Cross warns that drowning is fast, silent and can happen in seconds. With summer about six weeks away, one Cary mother is already taking steps to protect her child.

Carina recently enrolled her baby daughter, Sky, in swimming lessons to build confidence early.

"We wanted to give her the opportunity to learn as soon as she could, so when we go back to Europe she can swim," Carina said.

Swim educators Jeffrey and Pamela Gorton, who run Water Babies of Greater Raleigh, say starting young is key.

"We start with basic skills as early as possible," Jeffrey Gorton said. "We focus on how their body works in the water and responds in the water. We do that with song and activity."

Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1 to 4, underscoring the urgency behind those lessons.

"I was talking to a friend who was an EMT and he said, 'Jeff, you have to do this,'" Gorton said. "If you can save one child's life because they learned how to swim, it's all worth it."

During lessons, babies learn safe entry, floating techniques and how to stay above water. But instructors stress that swimming skills are only part of the equation.

"What's most important for us is to make sure the parents understand it's always their responsibility to monitor their children in the water," Gorton said. "Children need to be monitored in the water."

For Carina and her daughter, the lessons are already making a difference.

"It's been a great experience," Carina said. "She is relaxed in the water. We feel safe, we feel supported."

Pamela Gorton said the impact goes far beyond the summer season.

"Swimming is not only an activity -- it's a lifesaving skill," she said. "We want our children to know they can have that skill their entire life."

How to prevent drowning

Other than formal swimming lessons, here is how to reduce the risk of drowning, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

• Secure pools: Install a four-sided fence at least 4 feet high with self-latching gates and remove toys when not in use.
• Watch children closely: Always assign a responsible adult to supervise-no distractions. Drowning can happen quickly, even with lifeguards present.
• Use life jackets: Especially in natural water or while boating. Do not rely on pool toys as safety devices.
• Be prepared: CPR training can save lives in emergencies.
• Know the risks: Lakes, rivers, and oceans can have strong currents, poor visibility, and changing weather.
• Swim with a buddy: Never swim alone, and avoid alcohol during water activities or supervision.
• Take extra precautions: Medical conditions and certain medications can increase risk. Avoid breath-holding or hyperventilating underwater.