New York Health Department Stresses Swimming Safety

According to a recent New York State Department of Health press release, Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D. and the Health Department are reminding all New York residents to be cautious when swimming this summer.

Although injuries and drownings have still happened already this summer, the number of overall drownings in the state of New York continue to decrease each year. Within the last 20 years, only 151 drownings were reported at state regulated beaches and pools around New York. The Department of Health also reported that the number of swimmers statewide has actually increased within the past years.

Health Commissioner Dr. Daines said, "Drowning is a leading cause of injury and death among children under age 5. Always swim with a friend and make sure children are supervised by an adult."

"I almost drowned last year," said New York City resident Manny Lupina. "I was at a local swimming pool when I suddenly lost consciousness in the water after hitting my head. A lifeguard rescued me and I was okay. I feel like the state is now doing a lot to staff more beaches and pools with lifeguards, which is important to residents."

The New York Health Department regulates a total of 6,435 swimming pools and 1,600 wading and bathing beaches statewide. Swimming at one of the state's regulated pools or beaches reduces the number of water and swimming-related accidents because often lifeguards are on hand and safety and rescue equipment is available.

Throughout the year, state and other local health officials conduct investigations of drownings that occur at state regulated pools and beaches

The State Health Department regulates 6,435 swimming pools and 1,600 bathing beaches. Swimming at a regulated pool or beach provides a safe and healthy environment with state certified lifeguards and ready access to life safety equipment. In fact, the state of New York has the lowest number of drownings in the country. The state's drowning rate is 0.5 unintentional drownings per 100,000 residents.

The New York State Department of Health is encouraging the following safety suggestions:

-Do not let children use backyard pools unless an adult is present.
-Don't swim will intoxicated or even just drinking lightly.
-Be careful and cautious if you have a medical condition.
-Make sure there are no shaded areas of a pool to reduce sight problems when watching children.
-When boating (speed-boating, kayaking, canoing, etc), always wear a life jacket.

The Department of Health is offering more information and safety tips at www.nyhealth.gov