Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4. For children ages 5-14, it is the second leading cause of death (after motor vehicle crashes).*
In the United States, there are an average of 11 fatal and 22 nonfatal drownings per day. That’s 4000 fatal drownings and 8000 nonfatal drownings per year.
Nonfatal drowning can lead to brain damage or long-term disability. Almost 40% of drownings treated in emergency departments require hospitalization or transfer (versus 10% for all unintentional injuries).
The statistics are bleak, but drowning is PREVENTABLE!
Make sure you and your family are water safe. All children and adults should learn how to swim. Want to help us prevent drowning in Houston? Donate, volunteer, or join one of our swim lesson programs (like our summer program)! Let us know how we can help at info@float2fly.org.
*In the United States; source: https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/facts/index.html