We all know that summer is a fun time to swim, boat, and visit the beach or pool. However, water can also be very dangerous. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death in the United States, with over 4,000 deaths each year. Sadly, it is the number one cause of death for children aged one to four.

The good news is that most drownings can be prevented. The best way to stay safe is to use common sense and follow the safety tips below.

Simple Tips to Stay Safe Around the Water

• Always watch children: Never leave kids alone near water, even for a moment. Try to use beaches and pools staffed with a lifeguard when possible. If there’s a pool party at someone’s home, choose an adult who is responsible for watching the children in the pool. And keep in mind, drowning is typically fast and silent.
• Learn to swim: Swimming lessons can help lower the risk of drowning. Keep in mind that even strong swimmers still need adult supervision.
• Avoid blue or white bathing suits: Water safety professionals caution against putting children in blue or white swimsuits. In the water, these colors can blend in with reflections and light, making it harder to spot a child if they go under. Because visibility is critical in emergencies, suits that don’t stand out may delay recognition of a child on the pool bottom.
• Drowning is often silent: According to the American Red Cross, drowning rarely looks the way it does in the movies. Most people expect splashing or yelling—but drowning is often silent and can happen in less than a minute, even in just a few inches of water.
• Use a buddy system: Never swim alone. Always have someone with you.
• Enter the water feet-first: Diving into shallow or unfamiliar water can cause serious injuries. Always play it safe.
• Avoid pool drains: Broken and uncovered drains can trap clothing and limbs. Children need to be especially careful around them.
• Wear life jackets: Make sure everyone on a boat, kayak, or canoe wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
• Avoid alcohol: Do not drink alcohol while swimming, boating, or watching children. Alcohol impairs judgment and is often linked to accidents.
• Watch for rip currents: If you are pulled away from shore, stay calm. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back.
• Don’t hold your breath underwater: This can cause a blackout and increase the risk of drowning.v
• Learn CPR: Knowing CPR can help save a life in an emergency.
• Avoid risky behavior. Don’t swim or boat in rough water. Try to avoid going too far from shore. Don’t ignore the dangers of being at the beach or out on the water.

This summer, be sure to enjoy your time in the water. Just make safety a priority when you’re having fun!