Water Safety

In 2008, Public Health - Seattle & King County reported that 21 people drowned in King County. Of these drownings, 13 took place in open water, such as rivers, lakes, and Puget Sound. Most of the drownings occurred in May and June. May, with 5 deaths, was the worst month for drownings last year.

Drowning is completely preventable. The best ways to prevent drownings are:

• Lakes and rivers are particularly dangerous in May and early June. Beaches do not have lifeguards yet and rivers are colder, swifter, and more dangerous in general than in July and August. If you want to swim in the spring, swim in a pool that has lifeguards.
• Raft only with a professional company and always wear a life vest.
• Know the water - Washington waters are cold enough to cause hypothermia even on the hottest summer day; hypothermia can weaken even the strongest swimmer.
• Know your limits - drowning often happens when a person tires while swimming.
• Wear a life jacket - when swimming anywhere without lifeguards or whenever you boat, jet ski, tubing, or do other water sports. By law, children ages 12 or younger must wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket or vest on all vessels less than 19 feet.
• Always avoid alcohol when swimming or boating.
• Keep children within immediate reach when you are near any type of water.

If you own a pool, be sure your family knows and observes all safety rules. See the information below for pool safety tips.

Pool & Spa Safety