No matter your age, drowning can be a serious threat for those swimming, boating, or fishing in ponds, lakes, and rivers in the area.

Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation declaring this week as Drowning Prevention Week. Washington County Diver Rescue Team Captain Tim Wells tells about the immediacy of drowning, “It can happen quick. If you have a child, keep an eye on them. They can get in the water just as quick as you can, or you can lose sight of them. And if you’re in the water and you don’t know how to swim, the first thing I’m going to say is get a life jacket on, or just wear a life jacket even though you know how to swim.”

Over the past 10 years on average 37 Iowans have died each year from drowning, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health. Drowning happens to adults, too, “Fatigue, not knowing how to swim and you’re in the water, or alcohol. They like to go out and party and jump in, and they hit their head. But if you have good friends that are with you, they can control the atmosphere, you’ll have a good time. But use your head, that’s one of the key things.”

Wells recommends draining the water from unused kiddie pools in case a child were to wade in unsupervised. If you see someone drowning and are not physically able to rescue them yourself, call 911 immediately.