The reported number of near-drownings spiked during summer 2002 causing officials to reiterate the importance of water safety to swimmers now that the beach season is in full force.

Sixteen people drowned in Galveston County last year, which is a number similar to recent years.

But, 44 near-drownings were reported, which is the highest number since 1995 when health officials began compiling statistics on water-related accidents.

In 2002, an adolescent male swimming on a Galveston beach was most likely to be a drowning victim, according to Kurt Koopmann, public information officer for the Galveston County Health District.

Girls or women were less likely to be a victim of a drowning or near-drowning. While 41 men or boys were victims, only 19 women or girls were hurt. Only one woman died from drowning in 2002, according to the county records.

Also, people between the ages of 30 and 39 or over 50 were more likely to be a victim than people in other age groups, officials said.

“Drowning is a terrible incident that can be prevented,” said Dr Mark Guidry, executive director of the Galveston County Heath District. “When family and friends are enjoying the beaches, remember to talk to each other about safety in and around the water. By simply observing some simple precautions we - as a community - can reduce the risk of drowning.”

Officials caution swimmers to only swim where a lifeguard is present. Of all reported incidents in Galveston County last year, only four near-drownings occurred near a lifeguard tower and no victims drowned in these areas, a press release states.

Other measures swimmers can take at Galveston beaches or near Texas City dike include: wearing a life jacket, staying sober; learning how to swim; closely supervising children in or near the water; realizing that beach currents are stronger and more dangerous that poolside swimming; avoiding rip currents by staying away from rock jetties and piers; never diving head first and obeying all warning signs and flags.

For More Information Contact:
Kurt Koopmann
Public Information Officer
Galveston County Health District
(409) 938-2211
kkoopman@gchd.org