With Memorial Day approaching, the Illinois Department of Public Health is urging families to follow safe swimming practices.
Drowning remains the top cause of accidental death for young children, with 101 drowning deaths reported in Illinois last year. The state is promoting swimming lessons, life jacket use, and good hygiene at pools and splash pads to prevent both injuries and illness. Swimmers are also reminded to shower before entering the water and avoid swimming when sick.
Pool owners are advised to handle chemicals safely and keep kids away from storage areas.