According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), water is involved in more accidental deaths among people of all ages than firearms. The HDHHS Bureau of Epidemiology has been keeping statistics on drownings since 1994.

In the last six years, at least 550 drownings and near-drownings involving Houstonians and/or Houston locations have been reported to the Texas Department of Health (TDH).

Two thirds (2/3) of those incidents occurred between May 1 and August 31 and involved recreation in area swimming pools, rivers, lakes and other waterways.

• Swimming pools - nearly half (49.4 percent) of all Houston water injuries occurred in swimming pools, most involving children under the age of 10.

• Rivers/lakes/streams/bayous - fewer injuries (13.8 percent) occurred in these areas, however, when they did occur, they were more likely to be fatal than swimming pool injuries.

• Ocean - nearly a fifth (18.1 percent) of all reported injuries occurred in area bays and beaches. Many involved rough currents, rip tides and high waves that overwhelmed swimmers.

As you and your family enjoy the area’s pools and waterways this summer, keep these statistics and the following tips in mind:

• Make sure swimming pools have a fence and a working gate that stays shut.

• Coast Guard approved life jackets should be used in place of floaties and inflatable ring toys that give a false sense of security.

• Learn to swim.

• Learn CPR and first aid.

• Avoid swimming alone and NEVER leave a child unattended even for a moment when swimming.

Last year, 94 Houston and/or Houston location drownings or near-drownings were reported. Most of these recreational injuries are potentially preventable with attention to water safety. Let’s make 2001 a fun and safe year for all of us.