A new report from the CDC reveals a disturbing trend: unintentional drowning deaths are increasing in the United States after decades of decline. The most vulnerable group? Children ages 1 to 4, who already face the highest drowning risk of any age group.

What the Data Shows

According to the CDC’s Vital Signs report, the U.S. saw an average of 4,500 fatal drownings annually between 2020 and 2022. That’s an average of 12 deaths per day. While some of this increase overlaps with the COVID-19 pandemic, the trend has continued beyond lockdowns and closures.

For children ages 1–4, drowning remains the leading cause of injury death. In this age group, drowning deaths increased by 28% compared to 2019.

The report also highlights racial disparities. Black children aged 5 to 9 are 2.6 times more likely to drown than white children of the same age. For American Indian and Alaska Native children, the drowning rate is twice as high as that of white children.

Why Are Drowning Rates Increasing?

One likely factor: a significant drop in access to swim lessons. During the pandemic, many public pools and swim programs closed, and a shortage of lifeguards and instructors persists. In a national survey, more than half of U.S. adults said they had never taken a formal swimming lesson.

At the same time, more families began spending time at home or near informal water sources - like backyard pools, lakes, or bathtubs - often without consistent supervision or safety equipment.

What This Means for Moms

Many parents assume that drowning is loud and dramatic, but the truth is that it’s often silent and fast - happening in as little as 30 seconds. For children under five, even a small amount of water, like a kiddie pool or bathtub, can pose a serious risk.

But drowning is also preventable. The CDC emphasizes a “layered approach” to water safety that includes:

• Formal swim lessons for children starting as early as age 1
• Constant, close supervision by a capable adult - no phones or distractions
• Pool fences and locks to prevent unsupervised access
• Life jackets around open water and for non-swimmers
• CPR training for parents and caregivers

The good news is that water safety is actionable. With early lessons, active supervision, and basic barriers, families can reduce risk and keep water fun and safe.

‍

Read the Research: CDC Vital Signs Report, 2024