6 Swimming and Pool Safety Facts and Myths

Drowning statistics are sobering, and both pools and beaches present hazards that go beyond swimming safety. Here are some simple smart tips for staying safe.

By Dan Shapley

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Most Adult Drownings Happen Away from Home

Fact: For older teens and adults, age 15 and up, most drownings occur in natural settings like lakes, rivers and oceans. Alcohol is a factor in nearly half the drownings in this age group, according to the CDC.

What You Can Do
> Avoid alcohol if you're swimming, boating or enjoying other water sports.
> Heed local weather conditions and warnings. Avoid dangerous conditions like thunderstorms or strong currents.
> Swim where there's a lifeguard whenever possible, and swim with a buddy — never alone.

Related: The 10 Least-Visited U.S. National Parks

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