MARION, Va. (WJHL) — In the past five years, close to 500 people have lost their lives due to drowning in Virginia. To help keep this number from rising, the Smyth County Health Department is sharing important tips on drowning prevention with the community, especially as the Fourth of July holiday approaches.

Recognizing when someone is drowning can be challenging because the signs are often subtle and may only be visible for 20 to 60 seconds before the person submerges. “Contrary to how it is portrayed in films, drowning rarely involves dramatic splashing and yelling,” the department explained.

Smyth County shared the following prevention tips:

• Provide active supervision for all children in the water. A responsible adult should watch children closely when they are in or around water. Adults should not be distracted or engaged in other activities, even if lifeguards are present. For preschool-aged children, “touch supervision” is recommended, where the supervising adult is within arm’s reach of the child.
• Learn to swim. Knowing how to swim can reduce the risk of drowning.
• Learn CPR. Make sure we know what to do if someone needs help in the water.
• Always swim with a buddy. Never swim alone.
• Avoid swimming after dark. Signs of drowning are harder to see.
• Watch for swimming hazards like rip currents and rough waters.
• Observe any advisories and listen to lifeguards.
• “Floaties,” arm bands, and water wings are toys, not safety devices. When these toys are in use, the caregiver must still provide active supervision. Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
• Make sure pools have the proper safety features in place to help reduce the risk of injury.

According to a release from the health department, drowning is the leading cause of death among children in Virginia.