While summertime means fun in the water, it also marks a troubling time when Orlando-area hospital emergency rooms, like those across Florida, see a dramatic uptick in drowning incidents.

“Above all, supervise and be prepared,” said Dustin Huynh, MD, trauma medical director at HCA Florida Osceola Hospital, Osceola County’s only Level II Trauma Center for the treatment of the most critical injuries and emergencies. “What’s most difficult about treating a drowning victim is knowing many of these tragedies are preventable.”

Florida has led the nation in child drowning deaths for years, including 2023, according to data from the state’s Department of Children and Families.

Across the nation, more children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC also states for children ages 5-14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.

Dr. Huynh emphasizes the key to drowning prevention is teaching children how to swim. However, since not all children are ready to learn to swim at the same age, he advises parents to consult with their family doctor before starting swim lessons.

Most infant drownings occur in a just a few inches of water such as in a bathtub. Children ages 1-4 are at the highest risk of drowning in home swimming pools, while children ages 5 and over are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water.

Parents and those charged with watching children while swimming also should learn CPR and keep a phone nearby. Be aware of whether lifeguards are present as well as available safety equipment like flotation devices. Local CPR classes offering instruction in-person, online or using blended learning can be found at redcross.org.