CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — As summer approaches, the American Red Cross is reminding families that drowning is preventable—but often silent. May, recognized as National Water Safety Month, is a time to raise awareness about one of the leading causes of death for children and young adults.
Unlike in movies, drowning rarely involves splashing or calls for help. It can happen in less than a minute, even in just a few inches of water. Research shows that most rescues are performed by bystanders rather than trained professionals, highlighting the importance of vigilance around water.
“Everyone near water plays a role in keeping people safe,” said Kellie O’Connell, CEO of the Illinois Red Cross. “Whether it’s a child, a friend, or a stranger, you may be the only person in a position to recognize distress and respond.”
The Red Cross emphasizes several key safety measures: never swim alone, keep young children and weaker swimmers under constant supervision, designate a “water watcher” for shared vigilance, and use properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. In emergencies, bystanders are urged to reach or throw objects rather than enter the water themselves.
Educational programs like WHALE Tales, now available in Spanish, teach children in kindergarten through fifth grade crucial water safety skills without requiring them to be in the water. Meanwhile, the Red Cross’s Aquatics Centennial Campaign has provided nearly 159,000 swim lessons and certified thousands of lifeguards and water safety instructors nationwide.
Families are encouraged to access free resources and training at redcross.org/watersafety, and to download the Red Cross Swim app for mobile learning.
“Being water smart can make the difference between life and death,” O’Connell said. “Close supervision, preparation, and knowledge are the best ways to keep our communities safe.”