US officials urge swimmers to be cautious amid surge in drowning deaths

Recent deadly water-related incidents amid heatwave leads National Park Service to issue water-safety reminders

As a heatwave continues to bake the western and central US, officials are urging swimmers to be cautious when seeking respite from the summer heat, especially amid a score of recent deadly water-related incidents.

Each year, from April to September, drowning deaths rise nationwide, according to 2018-24 data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In June, two college students died after being swept away to sea by turbulent waves on a beach in Santa Cruz, California . Last week, also in California, two brothers were found dead in the Trinity River, a popular rafting destination that has seen several casualties this summer.

In southern California, a bodysurfer at Laguna Beach died this week after losing consciousness in the water; officials said he had been observed struggling to stay above water. Earlier this summer, at the same beach, a five-year-old girl was found dead after being engulfed by a wave.

Rivers, lakes and oceans can be colder than 80F in the summer, according to the National Park Service (NPS). While it may sound warm, the agency stressed the difference between air temperature and water temperature.

“Swimming in water colder than 70F lowers your body temperature and can lead to cold shock. Cold shock makes it difficult for you to breathe and swim,” according to a water safety page on the NPS’s site .

Conditions can also vary significantly from one place to another, said Mike Garel, an NPS Lake Mead national recreation area chief ranger.

“Don’t assume that what was safe somewhere else is safe here,” Garel said. “Before getting in, take a minute to understand the conditions and know what hazards may be present. Know your abilities, follow posted guidance, wear a life jacket and look out for the people you’re with.”

He continued: “We want people to enjoy the water and have fun, but to do it safely and responsibly.”

A California state parks spokesperson echoed the sentiment in a Friday statement.

“Tides and swell variables can quickly change a safe day at the beach into dangerous conditions,” they said.

Swimmers are encouraged to learn to recognize hazards, such as rip currents, which are fast-moving channels of water – not always discernible to the naked eye – that can drag swimmers away from the shore.

For individuals who spot swimmers in distress, the state park was emphatic about not attempting a rescue.

“Stay high and dry, always maintain a visual of the victim, and be ready to flag down responders,” the agency said. “Many cases have been made more dangerous by bystanders attempting rescues, putting themselves in a position beyond their abilities.”

Federal health officials also often repeat longstanding advice for those entering natural waters to wear life vests, including strong swimmers. The floatation device can be of aid if water depth suddenly changes or if swimmers get fatigued across great distances.

They also discourage consumption of drugs or alcohol, which can impair motor skills and increase the risk of drowning deaths.