Of those who survive a non-fatal drowning and are treated in emergency departments, more than half are hospitalized or transferred for further care. These individuals often experience brain damage that might result in long-term disabilities, including memory problems, learning disabilities, or permanent loss of basic functioning (for example, permanent vegetative state).

To Prevent Drowning:

• Everyone (adults and children) should know how to swim
• Caregivers should know CPR
• All boaters and weaker swimmers should use lifejackets
• Backyard swimming pools should be separated from the house and yard by a fence with a self-closing and self-latching gate
• Put locks and alarms on all doors and windows to keep children from getting into the pool area unnoticed
• When in and around water, have children within arms reach at all times. There is no substitute for adult supervision
• Have a telephone and rescue equipment, such as a shepherd's hook or flotation device (i.e.: life ring) nearby
• Inspect the areas in and around your home for other water hazards such as bathtubs, buckets and toilets. It only takes 2 inches of water to drown