The long, hot summer continues, and more people are trying to cool off at area beaches, lakes, and swimming pools.
Health officials are advising they get the facts to prevent drowning -- the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury death according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Dr. Sandra Schneider is professor of emergency medicine at Strong Memorial Hospital. She says, first and foremost, young children need to be watched at all times when they're in or near the water.
She adds all adults should learn CPR, because often drowning victims can be resuscitated at the scene. Dr. Schneider says other tips include, never swim alone, don't drink alcohol and swim, and small children should have a life vest on when they are on or near the water.
Children between the ages of one and four have the highest drowning rate.
