According to the governor’s proclamation, drowning is a leading cause of injury-related deaths among children under the age of five, and more than half of those accidents occur in residential swimming pools.

“Drowning can cause injuries and deaths that can be avoided, particularly among the youngest Californians,” said Schwarzenegger. “For this reason, we must be careful to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.”

With temperatures on the rise, more people are heading out to enjoy summer activities, many of which involve water and swimming.

“Most people assume Marines and sailors know how to swim – after all, they have to pass rudimentary swimming tests in boot camp,” said Ernesto M. Espinoza, occupation safety hazard supervisor, Base Safety Center, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. “However, often it’s not their swimming ability, or lack thereof, that leads to water mishaps.  It’s the underwater hazards or unknown water depths that lead to dangerous situations,” he said.

A trip to the ocean, lake or community pool is meant to be a good time and there are many resources available to help swimmers stay safe in the water.

“Another important rule is never to swim under the influence of alcohol,” said Espinoza. “Given the fact that many beach parties include alcohol, it’s important to make a plan to stay sober if you’re going to be going in the water. Many of those sailors and Marines who’ve died in the water over the last few summers didn’t take this advice,” he added.

Schwarzenegger encourages all Californians to get outside and enjoy the summer and urges everyone to take simple steps to prevent drowning.

California’s Department of Developmental Services has partnered with the Drowning Prevention Foundation and the California Department of Public Health in raising public awareness.  Visit http://www.dds.ca.gov/drowning and http://safetycenter.navy.mil to learn more.