23-05-2025
NCDHHS offers water safety tips for National Water Safety Month
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCT) — May is National Water Safety Month and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is reminding residents to take proactive steps to enjoy outdoor activities safely.
'Every North Carolinian deserves to enjoy the summer season without risk to their health or safety,' said Dr. Kelly Kimple, Interim State Health Director and NCDHHS Chief Medical Officer. 'By taking small, thoughtful actions — like supervising children near water, staying cool during extreme heat and practicing safe grilling — we can all stay safe this summer.'
Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4.
NCDHHS urges everyone to keep these water safety practices in mind:
Actively Supervise: Drowning can happen silently and in seconds. Always keep a close eye on children near water.
Secure Pool Areas: Keep gates and doors closed and locked. Remove pool ladders when not in use.
Know the Water: Be aware of currents, depth changes and undertows at beaches, lakes and rivers.
Stay Healthy: Don't swim when ill with diarrhea to prevent spreading germs.
Check Water Quality: Ensure pools are properly disinfected. Local health departments routinely inspect public pools, spas and splash pads.
Be Cautious in All Recreational Waters: Lakes and rivers may carry bacteria or harmful algae blooms. Check advisories before swimming.
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