The CDC has no statistics specifically on electric-shock drownings, but it does track unintentional drownings and says about 10 deaths a day are attributed to it. Important information to keep you and your family safe:
Each drowning by electrocution brings pool and water safety to front of mind, Rifkin says, but people soon forget about the danger and get lax in their habits.These tragedies are more common in fresh water, experts say. In fresh water, the body conducts electricity better than the water itself, the Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association says. Even so, salt water is not risk-free. The risk exists wherever there are water and electricity.
There is no visual warning or other clue that water may be electrified, experts say. And it doesn't take much electricity to cause drowning. According to the association, as little as one-fiftieth the current in a 60-watt lightbulb can be fatal to a swimmer.IAwareness of the danger is the first step, experts agree. They offer these precautions:
Have your home swimming pool, whirlpool bath, boat, and dock inspected each year. The Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association says these need to be properly wired with a ground-fault circuit interrupter . The devices turn off the power when electricity escapes into places where it can be dangerous.
If you swim in a neighborhood or community pool, talk to the homeowner association representative or pool manager to be sure they do regular inspections.
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