SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – With residential pool use at an all-time high and record summer temperatures pushing families outdoors, Illinois officials are urging residents to remain vigilant around the water to prevent tragic and avoidable drownings.

From 2020 to 2022, over 4,500 Americans died each year from drowning—a troubling increase of 500 deaths annually compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That equates to 12 drowning deaths per day, many involving children under the age of five.

“Pools have been a popular way to cool off this summer, but we can’t afford to get complacent — drownings can happen in an instant and often without a sound. It’s not like the movies,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow. “If children are in or around the pool, stay off your phone, put down your book, and keep your eyes on them at all times. Staying cool at the pool is fun — but it comes with serious responsibility.”

Alarming Trends in Child Drownings

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that an average of 379 children under age 15 drown in pools and spas annually. Nearly 75% of these fatalities involve children under 5, and 81% occur at residential locations.

Another 6,700 children are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year for nonfatal pool-related injuries, often resulting in long-term health complications.

Fencing Makes a Life-Saving Difference

Data from the American Red Cross shows that installing a four-sided isolation fence—separating the pool area entirely from the house and yard—reduces the risk of child drowning by 83% compared to three-sided fencing that connects to the home.

Chemical Safety Matters Too

Pool chemicals, while essential for sanitation, present another hazard if mishandled. Roughly 4,500 emergency room visits each year are due to pool chemical injuries, more than one-third involving children and teens.

Safety Tips from Illinois Officials:

  • Install a four-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate.
  • Remove or lock ladders and access steps to above-ground pools when not in use.
  • Designate an adult Water Watcher—no distractions, no exceptions.
  • Teach children to swim and learn CPR yourself.
  • Keep pool decks free of toys and floats to prevent unsupervised access.
  • Avoid pool drains and pipes, and ensure safety-compliant drain covers are installed.
  • Secure doors and windows with alarms and child-proof locks if they provide pool access.
  • Empty inflatable pools after each use to eliminate drowning hazards.
  • Take the Pool Safety Pledge at: www.poolsafety.gov/pledge

“As summer continues, we want Illinois families to enjoy the water—but do so safely,” Pankow emphasized. “One moment of inattention can have a lifelong consequence.” For more water safety resources and drowning prevention information, visit www.poolsafety.gov.