Drowning Prevention: How to Swim Safely in Lakes, Ponds, and Rivers

A refreshing plunge into a pond, lake, or river can be a great way to beat the summer heat. However, natural water environments present hidden challenges — such as sudden drop-offs, submerged branches, and murky debris — making them far less predictable than swimming pools. If there are no lifeguards on duty, even strong swimmers are at risk.  

Unintentional drowning claims an estimated 4,500 American lives annually, according to data from the CDC. Over half of these tragic incidents occur in lakes and rivers. Although the vast majority of victims are adults, drowning is a leading cause of death in children ages 1 through 4. New York state ranks fourth nationwide in total drowning fatalities — recording over 1,400 in the past decade. 

Non-fatal drownings are twice as common as fatal ones, affecting more than 8,000 people annually. Up to 20% of these survivors sustain permanent brain damage, ranging from memory loss and learning disabilities to lifelong comas (persistent vegetative states). 

Drowning is usually silent and swift. Victims are unable to wave or shout for help because they are fighting to breathe — struggling upright in the water, alternating between sinking and bobbing. Without intervention, full submersion can occur in as little as 30 seconds. 

Those at highest drowning risk include nonswimmers (more than 40 million Americans, according to the Red Cross), drug- or alcohol-affected people, seniors over 65 years of age, and unsupervised children. The National Drowning Prevention Alliance reports that 50% of child drownings occur within 25 yards of a distracted parent or caregiver.

Drowning in natural bodies of water can often be prevented by taking a few simple precautions. Nonswimmers should avoid water higher than chest level. Choose a pond or lake with a lifeguard on duty. Go with a buddy; almost half of drowning victims were swimming alone. Enter the water feet first, even if it appears shallow. Dive only in areas clearly marked as safe and at least 9 feet deep. Wear a life jacket when participating in activities such as boating or using Jet Skis. .  

If you see a swimmer in distress, yell for help and call 911. Do not jump into the water without a plan; a panicked swimmer can easily pull a rescuer under, creating the risk of a double drowning. Instead, remember: reach, throw, and row. For someone near the shore, lie flat and extend a long object, such as a towel or branch. If the person is farther out, throw any floating object, such as a life jacket or empty cooler. If a boat or kayak is available, row out while wearing a life vest, maintain a safe distance, and toss a flotation device or extend an oar. 

Time is critical for unconscious drowning victims, as irreversible brain injury can occur within four to six minutes. Because drowning results from severe oxygen deprivation, immediate CPR with rescue breaths (not just hands-only) is essential to prevent permanent damage and maximize the chance of survival.

If you start to struggle in the water, try to stay calm. Tilt your head back, submerge your ears in the water, and keep your chin up. Spread your limbs, relax your body, and float on your back. Once your breathing is slow and steady, call for help.

You can safeguard your loved ones in and around the water this summer by taking a few practical steps:

• Learn to swim: Children’s seasonal classes are offered through the Town of Stanford Recreation (Stanfordville), the Ancram Town Pool, and Lake Taghkanic State Park. Adult private and group instruction is available year-round at facilities such as Hudson Valley Swim in Hopewell Junction.

• Take a CPR course: The Medical Reserve Corps of Dutchess County offers free hands-on training; low-cost certification courses are available through Dutchess County BOCES and the American Red Cross.

• Learn water supervision: The Dutchess County Department of Health is hosting a free series of drowning prevention seminars in Pawling and Rhinebeck in June.

Dr. Mary Jenkins, a contributor to the Herald and member of its board of directors, retired after nearly 40 years as a family practice physician in New York state.