First responders warn of drowning risks during National Water Safety Month

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — May is National Water Safety Month, and Florida leads the nation in drowning deaths, according national data.

Pinellas County officials said there was a record increase in the number of drownings among kids in 2023. Firefighters responded to 37 pediatric submersions, and four children died.

St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, the City of St. Petersburg Aquatics, the Juvenile Welfare Board and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital are emphasizing the importance of awareness for families in the area. They’re highlighting the importance of preventative safety measures including:

• Life vests
• Alarms for doors & pool enclosures
• Swim lessons
• CPR education

“We like to have fun here in Florida, nice pool days, beach days,” said Captain Garth Swingle with St. Petersburg Fire Rescue. “Because we have that higher risk in our area, I think we need to have a much higher interest in it.”

The City of St. Petersburg and Pinellas County will distribute life vests for kids and vouchers for swim lessons during an event Saturday. The resources will be available at the Walter Fuller Pool from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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