Many factors contribute to drowning among this population:

• Teens and adults have a tendency to over-estimate their swimming abilities.

• Water conditions are underestimated (temperature, depth, unseen objects).

• Alcohol, drugs or medication are sometimes found to be a contributing factor.

• Life jackets are not being used.

But the most common element in adult water-related incidents is swimming alone.

You are never old enough to swim by yourself.  Kids are taught that they must have a supervisor and to “swim with a buddy” as they get older.  The same is true for grown-ups.

Adults they aren’t drownproof either and to follow two simple rules: Never swim alone and never swim impaired.

• Always tell a family member or friend that you are going into the pool or hot tub.

• Do not take any medications – either prescription or over-the-counter medicines – that could make you feel drowsy before entering a body of water. This includes pools, hot tubs or bath tubs. If you’re not sure, check with your doctor.

• Never mix alcohol and any kind of water-related activity.  The water temperatures in hot tubs can speed up the effects of alcohol.