As Drowning Deaths Doubled in King County in 2020, Water Safety Is More Important Than Ever

lifejacket

With hot summer days comes an increased desire to cool off in the region’s pools, beaches, rivers, and lakes. But in 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic pushed more people towards outdoor activities, King County saw drowning deaths double compared to 2018. Thirty-three people lost their lives in King County waters last year, nearly 70% of which occurred in open water incidents and drowning continues to be the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children and teens.  

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Safe Swimming in COVID times

As the weather gets warmer, you may want to go to the beach to enjoy the rivers and lakes in our area. But this summer, due to COVID-19 spread and budget cuts, many beaches in Seattle and King County do not – or likely will not – have a lifeguard on duty, and many will remain closed. Additionally, many swim lesson programs are cancelled, and most open beaches will not have life jacket loaner stations available this year.

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Water you waiting for? Learn these 5 tips for staying safe in the water

  If the past few weeks are any indicator, it’s going to be a hot summer here in King County. The National Weather Service is predicting higher than normal summer temperatures in the Pacific Northwest and we expect to see record numbers of people flocking to the water for relief from the heat. Unfortunately, with […]

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Cool off at lifeguarded beaches in King County

Summer is finally here, and arriving in full force with high temperatures expected this weekend. With hot weather, it is tempting to take a dip in our area’s lakes and rivers to cool off, but before you do, make sure there is a lifeguard on duty nearby. Already this year we’ve seen two drowning tragedies […]

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Hot weather and dangerous rivers make safety a top concern

After the long and rainy winter, we know many of you are itching to spend some time outside, in and on the water, soaking up some rays (with at least SPF 15 on, of course). But, before jumping in, know the risks. The weather is warming up, but our area’s lakes, rivers and open water […]

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