Oklahoma City Fire Department highlights rise in fatal drownings, stresses water safety

OKLAHOMA CITY, (KOKH) — Over the past 30 days, the Oklahoma City Fire Department has responded to eight drowning emergencies.

In five of these emergency calls, the victim did not survive.

OKCFD expresses the importance of following these water safety guidelines:

• Be a "water watcher" by supervising children closely and avoiding distractions
• Teach kids to ask before going near water and ensure everyone wears U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets
• Use barriers around pools, swim in lifeguarded areas with a buddy, and avoid alcohol or drugs when swimming or supervising
• Wear life jackets when boating or fishing
• Sign up to learn CPR

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