CARBONDALE, Ill (WSIL) - May is Childhood Drowning Prevention Month and state leaders say even a moment of distraction can turn deadly.
As temperatures rise and families head outdoors, Illinois health and safety officials are issuing a clear and urgent reminder, to never take your eyes off children while the near water.
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is encouraging parents and caregivers to follow simple, but life-saving precautions.
“Drownings happen quickly and silently � and sometimes in as little as one inch of water,� said DCFS Director Heidi Mueller. “Don’t rely on noise or splashing to alert you. Be water wise and supervise your children if you are near water this summer.�
In 2024, 19 Illinois children died from accidental drowning, with most of them under the age of 5.
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 4 and the second leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 5 to 14.
"It Doesn't Look Like the Movies", says SIU's William Stearns, an aquatics coordinator and 20-year lifeguard veteran. According to him, one of the biggest dangers is misunderstanding what drowning actually looks like.
It’s not typically loud or dramatic. There’s often no yelling or splashing. Which is why it's important to recognize the signs.
Health officials also urge good hygiene practices before and after entering public or private pools.
If you're sick, avoid the water for at least 24 - 48 hours. Showering before entering a pool helps keep bacteria you may be carrying from spreading, said Shawnna Rhine, with the Southern Seven Health Department.
To reduce risk, officials recommend, swim lessons for children and adults, CPR training, having life jackets and flotation devices near by, and staying alert.
DCFS emphasizes that drowning can occur in everyday places, not just pools or lakes. Parents and caregivers should take precautions:
In Bathrooms:
Never leave a young child alone in a bathtub � not even for a minute.
Use toilet locks; toddlers can tip in headfirst.
Keep bathroom doors closed and supervised.
With Buckets & Kiddie Pools:
Always empty and store 5-gallon buckets upside down.
Drain inflatable pools immediately after use.
Never rely on “shallow� water to be safe � drowning can occur in just one inch.
Around Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs:
Appoint a designated adult supervisor who can swim.
Keep toys, ladders, and furniture away from above-ground pools.
Install a 4-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate.
Cover hot tubs securely when not in use.
Clean Water, Safer Swimming
For a full list of tips visit the .
