As summer arrives and students finish their schooling, health professionals at Bellin and Gundersen Health System are reminding everyone about the importance of wearing life jackets while near water. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control shows that drowning deaths are on the rise, with over 4,500 people in the U.S. dying from drowning each year between 2020 and 2022, which is 500 more deaths than in 2019.
With more individuals planning to hit the water this summer, health officials are emphasizing the significance of wearing a life jacket, knowing how to swim, and being aware that drownings can occur silently. Kelly Hilsabeck, a Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinator at Bellin and Gundersen Health System, highlighted that drownings can happen quickly and quietly, with distressed swimmers not necessarily making noise before going under.
According to a report by the CDC, over 55% of American adults have not taken swimming lessons. However, it’s never too late to learn how to swim and practicing water safety measures can help prevent drownings. Remember to always wear a life jacket, stay near supervised swimming areas, and learn how to swim to stay safe while enjoying water activities this summer.