CONNECTICUT, USA — As summer kicks off in New England, first responders are warning people to be extra careful when it comes to keeping themselves and others safe while swimming.
The warning comes after two people died Thursday by drowning.
Officials with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) said two people died while swimming in Connecticut, the first incident being a 94-year-old woman at Hammonasset Beach State Park who was pulled out of the water unconscious.
The second death was a 21-year-old man who went under at an Oxford reservoir and never came back up. Police said he was swimming in an area not designated for people to be in the water.
West Haven emergency officials said they see these tragedies every year. Now, they are asking people again to be extra careful.
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“Wear a life jacket, it’s a lifesaver," said Rick Fontana with the West Haven Emergency Operations. "We want people to be aware if it’s hot out, they’re sweating, they become dehydrated, they [may] want to get into the water, but that might not be best. They can cramp up very easily."
Fontana said if you see someone who needs help, evaluate the situation quickly, don’t hesitate.
“First thing to do if you see someone struggling is call 911, get the professionals here," Fontana said. "If you don’t have the confidence in your ability to swim and help them, becoming part of the problem is not what we would want you to do."
Lastly, try to only swim in areas with trained supervision to help in an emergency.
“It’s very hard when it’s 95 degrees and humid, people want to jump into the water," Fontana explained. "If it’s not designated for swimming, you don’t know what lies underneath. The depth might not be conducive. There could be mud, and people could be trapped in the water you’re swimming in."
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Brooke Griffin is a reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at bgriffin@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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