Bottom Line: Safe summer swim tips [Video]

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC/CONSUMER REPORTS)- It happens all too often: Summer fun turns to tragedy around the water.

Drownings are increasing, which is why Consumer Reports explains it’s critically important to follow basic safety precautions around pools, lakes, and the ocean.

Drowning is the number-one leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1 through 4, and the rate of drowning for black children is more than twice as high as for white children. Experts say that teaching children how to swim early is one of the best ways to prevent drowning.

There are many free or reduced-cost swimming classes for kids. Online water safety classes for parents and caregivers are available at your local YMCA, Red Cross, or Parks and Rec Department. These are life-saving skills.

Try to find a program that teaches “water competency” both with swimming and safety skills.

It’s also important for adults to take water safety …