Riverside County Officials Urge Water Safety as Memorial Day Kicks Off Summer

Riverside County Officials Urge Water Safety as Memorial Day Kicks Off SummerPhoto byRiverside County, California

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – As Memorial Day ushers in the summer season, Riverside County health officials are urging residents to be vigilant around water to prevent drowning incidents. With pools, lakes, and beaches expected to be crowded with people seeking holiday fun, the call for caution is timely and crucial.

“This is an especially important time of year to be mindful of children and all family members when they are around water. It’s also an important time to ensure our children and grandchildren take survival swim lessons and learn the rules around the pool,” said Riverside County Third District Supervisor Chuck Washington.

Pools, natural water sources, tubs, and even water-filled buckets pose serious drowning risks if not properly monitored.

“All drownings are tragic and all drownings are preventable. The key is to never assume that someone else is watching your children when they are around water – any kind of water,” said Kim Saruwatari, Director, RUHS Public Health.

Preventive Actions

Health officials recommend several preventive measures to enhance water safety:

• Add barriers: Install gates, fences, and alarms around water sources.
• Assign a water watcher: Always have someone designated to watch people near water, ensuring no one swims alone.
• Avoid impairments: Adults should avoid consuming alcohol and medications that can affect judgment, balance, and swimming ability when near water.
• CPR and first aid training: Learn CPR, basic first aid, and rescue techniques.
• Swim lessons: Enroll children in swim lessons with certified instructors.
• Life jackets: Wear life jackets when near natural water sources.

Residents are also encouraged to apply these safety layers when vacationing at hotels or rental properties.

Drowning Incidents in 2024

So far in 2024, Riverside County has reported 25 drowning incidents, resulting in five adult fatalities and no child fatalities.

For more safety tips and resources, visit the Riverside County Water Safety Coalition.

About the Riverside County Water Safety Coalition

The Riverside County Water Safety Coalition is a collaborative effort involving Riverside University Health System - Medical Center, Riverside County Department of Public Social Services, Riverside County Department of Environmental Health, CAL FIRE / Riverside County Fire Department, First 5 Riverside, and Riverside University Health System - Public Health. The coalition's mission is to promote water safety and prevent drowning incidents.

Discussion Points:

1. What additional measures can be taken by communities to enhance water safety during the summer?
2. How can residents stay informed about water safety protocols and resources?

Share this story on your favorite social media site to help spread the word about water safety and prevent drowning incidents this summer.