DOH-Bay shares water safety tips for National Water Safety Month
According to a news release, children ages 1 to 4 years old are more likely to drown in a home swimming pool than children ages 5 to 19 years old, who are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water.
The DOH-Bay said that learning and following water safety rules is vital to help keep everyone safe and let those who enjoy water recreation without the danger of drowning, as everyone plays a role in drowning prevention.
DOH-Bay Water Safety Tips:
– Always keep your eyes on children in and around water, including pools and open bodiesof water. Actively supervising and giving children your undivided attention when they arein or around water can help prevent drownings.
– Never leave a child alone around water.
– If your child is missing, check other pools or surrounding bodies of water.
– Use barriers around water, including fences, self-closing/self-latching gates, and securedoors with alarms. Barriers help prevent young children from wandering into bodies ofwater, including lakes, pools, ponds, and more.
– Have a phone nearby in case you need to call 911 in an emergency.
– Open cuts or wounds should not be immersed in water; if there's bacteria in the water, itcan enter the body through a cut or wound.
– If a cut or wound happens when in the water, it should be washed with clean, runningwater and soap and covered with a clean, dry, waterproof bandage
DOH Beach and Lake Swimming Tips:
– Swim It: Always swim with a buddy, and when safety flags and signs give it the all-clearto do so.
– Shore It: If you have a weakened immune system, a cut on your skin, or don't have abuddy to swim with, stay on dry land.
– Dodge It: If you encounter animals that live near or in the water, stay away. Also, do notdrink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts, or come into contact with waters wherethere are visible algal blooms like red tide and blue-green algae. For current informationon red tide or blue-green algae, please visit Protecting Florida Together or the FloridaDepartment of Environmental Protection's Algal Bloom Dashboard.
For more information, contact DOH-Bay at 850-481-4806.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
World's deadliest animal is probably outside your Florida home right now. Protection tips
What's the world's most dangerous animal? Hint: It's plentiful in Florida and no, it's not an alligator, shark or python. According to the Centers for Disease Control the deadliest animal in the world is the mosquito. "The mosquito kills more people than any other creature in the world," the CDC said, noting the flying nuisance spreads such diseases as malaria, dengue, West Nile, yellow fever, Zika and chikungunya. The Florida Department of Health said there are 80 types of mosquitoes in the state, many of which transmit diseases. The agency tracks mosquito-borne illnesses — known as arboviruses — acquired locally and those contracted by people with a history of travel. Here's what you should know, including how you can protect yourself and your family. Mosquito-borne illnesses confirmed in Florida so far this year The latest report from the Florida Department of Health has confirmed the following cases of mosquito-borne illnesses in the state between Jan. 1 through Aug. 2: West Nile Virus: 5 asymptomatic blood donors Escambia: 5 Chikungunya: 4 cases in those with travel history Broward: 2 Lake: 1 Miami-Dade: 1 Dengue: 122 cases in those with travel history; 7 cases in non-Florida residents Bay: 1 Brevard: 2 Broward: 10 Clay: 1 Collier: 2 Duval: 3 Escambia: 1 Hillsborough: 6 Lake: 3 Lee: 4 Manatee: 1 Marion: 1 Miami-Dade: 63 Okeechobee: 3 Orange: 6 Osceola: 2 Palm Beach; 5 Pasco: 1 Pinellas: 3 Polk: 1 St. Johns: 1 St. Lucie: 1 Volusia: 1 Denque acquired in Florida: 8 cases Brevard: 6 Miami-Dade: 2 Malaria: 28 cases in those with travel history; 9 in non-Florida residents Alachua: 1 Brevard: 1 Broward: 3 Collier: 1 Duval: 1 Hillsborough: 1 Lake: 1 Marion: 2 Miami-Dade: 4 Nassau: 2 Orange: 3 Palm Beach: 3 Polk: 2 St. Lucie: 2 Volusia: 1 What mosquito-borne diseases are tracked in Florida? The Florida Department of Health tracks travel- and locally acquired cases of the followed mosquito-borne diseases: West Nile fever and West Nile encephalitis Eastern equine encephalitis virus St. Louis encephalitis virus Dengue virus Chikungunya virus Zika virus California encephalitis group viruses Malaria Florida has more than 80 types of mosquitoes. Here are 5 'most wanted' The Florida Department of Health said there are more than 80 different species of mosquitoes in Florida, compared to about 3,500 species in the world. While not all of them cause disease, here are five the agency lists as "Florida's most wanted": Aedes aegypti, the yellow fever mosquito Larvae are found in water-holding objects found around the home and yard, such as flower vases, tires, toys, bottles, conch shells, cans, refrigerator drain pans, barrels, bromeliad plants, and other containers. Can be found in all of Florida except Panhandle counties. Diseases: Dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito Larvae found in water-holding objects found around the home and yard, such as flower vases, tires, toys, bottles, cans, barrels, tree holes, bromeliad plants, and other containers. Found in all Florida counties. Diseases: Dngue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. Culex quinquefasciatus, southern house mosquito Larvae are found in a variety of aquatic habitats, especially those with high organic content, including catch basins, ditches, containers, dairy lagoons, and others. Found in all Florida counties and are abundant throughout the state. Diseases: Dog heartworm, St. Louis encephalitis virus, West Nile virus. Aedes taeniorhynchus, Black salt marsh mosquito Larvae are found in salt marshes. Found in all Florida counties and are strong fliers that are major pests during summer and early fall. Disease: Dog heartworm. Psorophora ciliata, Gallinipper Larvae are found in ditches, containers, grassy pools, furrows of citrus groves, pasture areas. Found in all Florida counties. Diseases: None none. What attracts mosquitoes? While there's not much we can do about some conditions mosquitoes are attracted to — this is Florida — we should note mosquitoes are drawn to: Damp or humid areas Standing water Warm temperatures Dark, shady areas Carbon dioxide (your breath) Myth or magic? Do mosquito-repelling plants really work? Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. And they don't need much. Water in a bottle cap can provide an ideal breeding ground. Experts repeatedly encourage residents to empty flower pots, bird baths and any outdoor item that holds standing water — including bromeliads — to stop mosquitoes from breeding. Some residents share ideas to make outdoor living more bearable by selecting mosquito-repelling plants for their landscape, especially citronella and lavendar. But do they really work? 'Certain plants do contain mosquito-repelling compounds,' says Liah Continentino, environmental horticulture agent with University of Florida/IFAS Extension Monroe County. 'But unless you're extracting their oils and applying them like a spray, they're not doing much just sitting in your garden. 'Plants like eucalyptus, citronella, mint, basil, lavender and marigolds have oils that can deter mosquitoes. But the key word is 'oils.' These compounds need to be extracted and used in concentrated forms — like sprays — to be truly effective." In other words, mosquito-repelling plants are more myth than magic — at least when it comes to passive protection, UF said in a news release. So what can Florida residents do to minimize mosquitoes? Don't give up when it comes to enjoy Florida outdoor living. There are some things you can do and some do involve plants. Here are a few ideas: Reduce mosquito habitats 'This includes regularly emptying plant saucers, bird baths, pet water bowls and bromeliads, as well as any other water-holding plants. Refreshing bird baths and pet bowls with clean water several times a week and flushing bromeliad cups with a hose can help prevent larvae from developing,' said Jennifer Pelham, UF/IFAS urban horticulture agent and director of UF/IFAS Extension Martin County. Use plants in your landscape to attract mosquito predators "For dragonflies, which are highly effective mosquito hunters, they are drawn to native aquatic plants. For birds, include shrubs and trees that supply food, shelter and nesting areas,' said Lorna Bravo, urban horticulture agent with UF/IFAS Extension Broward County. Use fish to control larvae For water features that are permanent, such as ornamental ponds, UF/IFAS recommends adding mosquito-eating fish like Gambusia to naturally control larvae. Cover rain barrels with screens and refresh pet water bowls daily to prevent mosquito access. Encourage mosquito predators in your yard, including fish, dragonflies, fronts, birds and bats. What are the best mosquito repellents to use? According to the CDC, repellents with the following active ingredients "typically provide reasonably long-lasting protection": DEET Picaridin Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or PMD "Products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus specifies that they should not to be used on children under the age of 3." IR3535 2-undecanone "Certain products containing permethrin are recommended for use on clothing, shoes, bed nets, and camping gear, and are registered with EPA for this use." Items that don't work to repel mosquitoes "There are many gimmicks for sale that do not work, so be an educated consumer and don't waste your money on impulse buys," the Florida Department of Health said. Some items that are not effective for reducing mosquitoes include: Mosquito plants Bug zappers Consumption of garlic, vitamin B, and bananas Repellent bracelets and wristbands Ultrasonic devices and cell phone apps Dragonfly mimics This article originally appeared on Florida Today: World's deadliest animal are mosquitos. 80 types in Florida Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Several beaches in Bay County are under a health advisory due to water quality
PANAMA CITY — Four local beaches are under health advisories for a high abundance of a fecal indicator bacteria. Carl Gray Park, Earl Gilbert Park, Laguna Beach and the Panama City Beach City Pier were all ranked as poor for levels of enterococcus bacteria. Carl Gray Park has been under an advisory since July 21. The advisory is new for all other affected locations. The Florida Department of Health in Bay County is advising against any water-related activities at these locations. Enterococci bacteria live in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and are used as an indicator of potential fecal contamination of surface waters. The Environmental Protection Agency says leaky septic systems, stormwater runoff, effluent from wastewater treatment plants, discharge from boats, and agricultural runoff are all sources of fecal indicator bacteria. The News Herald previously reported that aging wastewater infrastructure in Bay County can sometimes lead to sanitary sewer overflows, especially during extreme rain events. While the bacteria itself isn't harmful to people, it indicates that other pathogens that can cause sickness are present. Swimming isn't the only way to be exposed; eating raw fish or shellfish from affected waters can also cause illness. Being in affected waters could lead to gastrointestinal disease, infections, or rashes, according to the Florida Healthy Beaches Program. Bay County advises residents to have septic tanks pumped and inspected every three to five years to prevent leaking. They also ask that pet waste be flushed or thrown into the garbage. The county also advises that lawn chemicals be used wisely and that fertilizer be used sparingly. They say that excess fertilizer flows downstream and often results in algae blooms in ponds and lakes. This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Bacteria levels spur health advisories on Bay County beaches Solve the daily Crossword
Newsweek
09-08-2025
- Newsweek
Fifth Person in Florida Dies of Flesh-Eating Bacteria: What to Know
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A 78-year-old man is the fifth person in Florida this year to die from a Vibrio vulnificus infection, a bacterium referred to as "flesh-eating" because it can destroy skin and muscle tissue. Newsweek has reached out to Florida's Department of Health via email for comment on Saturday. Why It Matters While Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare, Florida saw a surge last year, with the state's Department of Health reporting 82 cases and 19 deaths, largely due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. This year, 16 cases have been reported, with the latest death marking the fifth. CBS News reported 13 confirmed cases, and 8 deaths, citing state health agency officials. The bacteria typically grows in warm seawater and is part of a group of vibrios known as "halophilic" because they require salt, according to the Florida Department of Health. The bacteria is found in higher numbers when water temperatures are warmer, typically from May through October, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). What To Know The man was vacationing with his family on St. George Island, off Florida's Panhandle, when he reportedly contracted the bacteria through a cut on his leg, News Channel 8 reported. He developed a fever the next day. He then reportedly underwent five surgeries and two amputations, but ultimately, died on August 4. The Florida Department of Health warns against entering the water with fresh cuts or scrapes and advises immunocompromised individuals to wear protective footwear to avoid injuries from rocks and shells on the beach. People can also contract the bacteria by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, with the health department confirming that a death in July was caused by an infection after the person ate raw oysters. Cases are popping up along the Gulf, with the Louisiana Department of Health, in a July 30 press release, noting a recent uptick in cases. "To date this year, 17 cases of Vibrio vulnificus have been reported among Louisiana residents. All of these patients were hospitalized, and four of these illnesses resulted in death," the press release stated. The statement noted that the case count is much higher than in recent years, stating, "During the same time period over the previous 10 years, an average of seven Vibrio vulnificus cases and one death were reported each year." Inset: Grouping of Vibrio vulnificus bacteria revealed in the 13184x magnified scanning electron microscopic (SEM) image, 2005. A boat chugs along the Gulf as the sun sets over the horizon on March 19, 2020, in... Inset: Grouping of Vibrio vulnificus bacteria revealed in the 13184x magnified scanning electron microscopic (SEM) image, 2005. A boat chugs along the Gulf as the sun sets over the horizon on March 19, 2020, in the St. George Island section of Eastpoint, Florida. More Centers for Disease Control CDC /James Gathany/ Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images/AP Photo/Julio Cortez What People Are Saying Public health physician and pulmonologist Dr. Vin Gupta told NBC News earlier this week: "[Vibrio vulnificus can] cause stomach upset, one very self-limited manifestation. The other that is vastly more serious is a wound infection which shows a hallmark skin rash that can really progress into a very severe infection. The third is a blood stream infection, which is what we are trying to avoid that can be life threatening, that's where early detection, early treatment is really critical." Aileen Marty, professor of Infectious Diseases, Florida International University, previously told Newsweek: "Cases have been rising as summers have grown warmer. The reason is that V. vulnificus is naturally found in warm, brackish coastal waters, especially in the Gulf Coast states (e.g., Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi)." What Happens Next? Health officials advise against entering warm, salt or brackish water with open cuts or scrapes, or eating raw oysters and shellfish, and urge individuals who develop symptoms after exposure to seek medical attention immediately.
