'We are losing so many children': DCF releases water safety tips for kids, parents

Jacksonville, FL — With Memorial Day weekend marking the unofficial start to summer-- and the real start to summer just around the corner-- the Florida Department of Children and Families is sharing safety tips to keep your children safe.

John Harrell with DCF in the Northeast Florida region says drowning is a serious and tragic problem in our state.

"Florida loses more children under the age of 5 to drowning, than any other state in the nation," says Harrell. He adds that 80% of children that die from drowning are 3-years-old and under.

But he says DCF believes drowning deaths can be prevented, though, parents need to help and take responsibility.

Harrell says one of the most important things is supervision.

"At least one person keeping a close eye on the children. And that means putting the cellphones away, avoiding any long and detailed conversations, making sure they're seeing on the children, keeping eyes on them, and are able to help quickly if the children get into trouble," says Harrell.

DCF also strongly asks parents to consider getting children swimming lessons, as early as the age of 1.

Even with lessons, Harrell says it's important to make sure your children know not to get into water of any kind, without supervision.

When it comes to pool owners, Harrell says it's important to have gates and locks around your pool, as children are often curious.

DCF also encourages people to learn CPR, in case the skill is ever needed.

In 2017, there were more than 80 child drownings in Florida. Just this week in Jacksonville, a near drowning left a child in critical condition in Arlington.