Suffolk Renews Warning as Drowning Deaths Hit 14

Suffolk has received 114 drowning calls resulting in 14 deaths so far this year, prompting county emergency officials to urge residents and visitors to take additional precautions around pools, beaches and other waterways.

The figures, current through Aug. 13, were released by the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) as the summer swimming season continues. The dangers were highlighted during one recent weekend at Smith Point Beach, where lifeguards rescued 50 swimmers.

“Not all accidents are preventable, but there are certainly a number of things we can all do to be as safe as possible when we or our children are swimming,” FRES Commissioner Rudolph Sunderman said.

County officials are urging people to swim only in designated areas when lifeguards are on duty and never swim alone. Children should never be left unattended near water, regardless of their swimming ability.

Officials recommend designating a competent adult as a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is supervising swimmers without distractions such as a cellphone. Parents are also encouraged to put children in brightly colored bathing suits to make them easier to spot in the water.

At private pools, residents should maintain required fencing, gates and alarms and never rely on inflatable or foam toys as lifesaving devices. Pool owners should have alarms capable of detecting a child entering the water.

Beachgoers are warned never to swim after dark or during thunderstorms and to be aware of rip currents. Officials also caution against alcohol or drug use while swimming or supervising others in the water.

FRES recommends swimming lessons for people of all ages and encourages residents to learn hands-only CPR. Anyone who sees a swimmer in distress should immediately call 911 and alert the nearest lifeguard.