The importance of swimming safety ahead of Memorial Day weekend, find out more tonight at 9

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Illinois Department of Public Health is urging residents to consider safety during water activities this weekend and beyond.

In recognition of the CDC’s Healthy and Safe Swimming Week, observed May 19–25, the agency is raising awareness about drowning prevention, waterborne illnesses, and pool chemical safety.

“Families are getting ready to be in and around the water this summer, and their goal often is to have fun,” said Shawna Rhine, Community Outreach Coordinator for Southern 7. “We want their priority to be safety because unintentional drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 and the number two death for children ages 0 to 17 nationwide.”

Officials recommend close supervision of children, avoiding swimming when sick, and following posted safety rules at splash pads, pools and beaches.

They also encouraged making sure your child goes through a form of swimming lessons, to help prevent potential situations.