Nassau County, NY officials double down on water safety after 9 drowning incidents in 2023 [Video]

WANTAGH, Long Island (WABC) — Nassau County officials are taking extra measures to ensure people are ahead of the curve when it comes to water safety this summer.

The efforts to raise awareness comes after the county reported there were nine drownings and near drownings in 2023. Six happened in pools and were mostly infants and children.

“Every year we hear of accidental drownings and we hear of children in pools who have drowned,” said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. “We hear about boating accidents, young people not wearing their life preservers. We’re just here to remind people that according to the Center for Disease Control, drowning remains fifth on leading causes of unintentional injury death in the United States.”

Blakeman acknowledged that residents should hire a lifeguard at their pool parties if possible, or designate someone to always keep an eye on everyone in the water.

Also, parents should never leave children alone in …