As people flock to lakes, pools, and the Delaware River to escape the summer heat, the Hunterdon County Health Department is sounding the alarm over water safety.
Drowning claims an average of 11 lives daily nationwide, and is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4, with 88 percent of those incidents occurring when an adult is nearby.
The county health department said constant, focused supervision is key to preventing drowning deaths.
Each summer, the Delaware River sees fatal and near-fatal incidents, which keeps rescue crews in Hunterdon and Bucks counties on high alert.
Safety tips from the Hunterdon County Health Department:
• Supervise every swimmer. Always keep children within arm’s reach and give them your full attention. Drowning is quick and silent; it can happen in under 30 seconds.
• Start swimming lessons early. Age-appropriate lessons through the Hunterdon Health and Wellness Centers and River Crossing YMCA can reduce a young child’s risk of drowning by up to 88%.
• Secure home pools. Install fences with self-closing gates, remove ladders from above-ground pools when not in use, and store pool toys out of sight. 69% of child drownings happen when the child is not expected to be near water.
• Be cautious in natural bodies of water. In lakes and rivers, watch for strong currents, hidden debris, and changing weather. Never dive headfirst and avoid swimming near boats or dams. Always check for bacteria or toxic algae advisories before entering freshwater.
• Practice river safety. River currents can be deceptively strong—even in shallow areas. Enter feet first, wear a USCG-approved flotation device, never swim alone, and avoid alcohol.
• Be prepared. Learn CPR, have a phone nearby, and know the location of safety equipment. The County encourages residents to take Red Cross water safety and CPR courses.
“Water activities are a great way to cool down and enjoy summer, but we must never let our guard down,” said Hunterdon County Commissioner Deputy Director Shaun Van Doren, who serves as liaison to the health department. “A moment’s distraction can turn into a life-threatening emergency.”
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