Drowning deaths surged during the pandemic after decades of decline
Intense heat across California spurred a surge of beach rescues as lifeguards saved swimmers from dangerous surf, underscoring how quickly a cooling dip can become life‑threatening even with trained responders nearby. A recent CDC study shows drowning deaths rose during the pandemic years, highlighting broad gaps in swimming ability and access to lessons, especially among Black and Hispanic communities. The findings imply that reducing risk requires more affordable, accessible water-safety training and public pools, not just on‑site vigilance. Authorities urge ongoing supervision, proper flotation, and CPR readiness, with emphasis on recognizing rip currents and avoiding alcohol around water. Looking ahead, expanding swimming education and equitable access is considered essential to curb preventable drownings.
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A 16-year-old lifeguard sprinted into rough surf at Seabright Beach to rescue a 10-year-old boy, with another lifeguard and bystanders aiding their return to shore.
Over the weekend, California beaches saw thousands of ocean rescues as heat drew crowds to the water, including dramatic saves near the Venice Pier.
From 2020 to 2022, drowning deaths in the U.S. averaged more than 4,500 annually, about 500 higher per year than in 2019, according to a 2024 CDC study.
The study found a broad gap in swimming skills: nearly 40 million adults cannot swim, and a majority have never taken a lesson, with pronounced disparities among Black and Hispanic adults.
Cost, accessibility, fear of water, and discomfort with traditional swimwear were cited as barriers to taking lessons, alongside historical and social inequities affecting access to pools and instruction.
CDC guidance emphasizes constant supervision of children around water, wearing life jackets when boating, avoiding alcohol, learning CPR, and ensuring lifeguards are present at beaches or designated towers.
In rip currents, the recommended response is to float and swim parallel to shore rather than directly against the current, and to alert a lifeguard if someone is in trouble.