FORSYTH COUNTY, N.C. -- It’s that time of year when people are jumping back in the pool and experts are reminding parents to make safety their top priority.

  • Drowning is a leading cause of preventable death in children
  • Kids shouldn't run on pool deck
  • Eat small meals throughout the day

“Drowning is a very significant public health issue. It's one of the leading causes of a preventable death in children," Dr. Michael Fitch at Wake Forest Baptist Health said.

Lifeguard and manager at the new Winston Waterworks Aquatic Center in Winston-Salem says his team is methodical about preventing problems.

"Scanning and zone coverage are the best way to keep track of patrons in the pool,” Cleland said. “It helps you break down large numbers into smaller groups and really helps maintain that safe environment."

Doctors tell us terminology like "dry drowning," "wet drowning," or "secondary drowning" aren’t clinical terms. It’s either drowning or surviving and even a close call can carry consequences.

"Certainly there can be problems with brain damage or damage to other organs if there's a long period of time where patients aren't able to breathe normally while submerged,” Dr. Fitch said.

It can also be a problem in non-pool areas like lakes, rivers, or streams.

"For any swimmer, confidence is key, but confidence is also your Achilles heel,” says lifeguard Clelend, “If you go in the water thinking you're the best swimmer there and you're not, odds are you'll get in over your head. But, for a young kid, they need to have that confidence level and think they can do it."

Experts say rules at public pools or in the backyard should be the same:

  • Kids should not run on the pool deck
  • Make sure to reapply sunscreen
  • Stay hydrated
  • Eat small meals throughout the day

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