There have been several fatal drowning accidents on Iowa waterways already this summer, including one on Lake Panorama June 9th.
Dallas County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Dave Herrick says too many drownings happen each and every day.
“Everyday 10 people die from drowning. It’s the second most leading cause of accident death of children between 1 and 4 years of age” says Herrick.
And even if you do survive a drowning there can be long term effects such as memory problems and learning disabilities. Herrick says the major causes of drownings are lack of supervision and physical barriers. Therefore, responsible adults that are watching children swim must do so with undivided attention.
He says children have also been known to go into the water unexpectantly and encourages adults to remove toys from pools as they can lure children into the water.
Herrick also adds that no one should swim alone and encourages the buddy system.