The Illinois State Fire Marshal highlights an alarming trend: more than 4,500 drownings occur each year nationwide, with residential pools posing the greatest risk. The majority of these tragedies involve young children and take place at home rather than in public facilities. Authorities are urging families to enforce vigilant adult supervision at all times when children are near water and to install secure fencing around pools to create a physical barrier. Additionally, experts recommend storing pool chemicals safely and following usage instructions closely to prevent toxic exposure and accidental injuries. Community members are reminded that simple precautions can save lives. Take the Pool Safety Pledge by visiting: www.poolsafety.gov/pledge.
“Pools have been a popular way to cool off this summer, but we can’t afford to get complacent — drownings can happen in an instant and often without a sound. It’s not like the movies,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow. “If children are in or around the pool, stay off your phone, put down your book, and keep your eyes on them at all times. Staying cool at the pool is fun — but it comes with serious responsibility.”