Water is one of the most effective ways to stay cool, but it’s very important to protect children around the water.

According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages one to four. Infant swimming resource lessons can start from 6 months to 6 years old.

The free J.A.W.S. program at Splash Island teaches children to swim safely and spot water hazards. CDC data shows drowning rates for kids 1–4 are up 28%, but local programs are stepping up prevention.

Dr. Radu said that kids with autism are 160 times more likely to drown than children who are not on the spectrum.