SAN DIEGO — Beach weather is here and health officials are urging caution while swimming. A new CDC report says drownings are on the rise nationwide.
"I've been playing in the water and playing with a boogie board but right now I'm trying to build a sand castle," said 7-year-old Jasmine.
She was one of many kids spending time with her family at Mission Beach on Monday. Big waves and rip currents can cause a fun beach day to take a turn.
'You need to exit the water. This area has a very dangerous rip current we'd like to keep it clear all day," San Diego Lifeguards announced.
With public pools and swim lessons shut down during the pandemic, health officials have seen an uptick in drownings nationwide. A new CDC report found a 28% increase in young children drowning and 19% increase for elderly adults in 2022 compared to 2019.
"Our recommendation is always swim near a lifeguard," said Jacob Magness, a lieutenant with the San Diego Lifeguards.
If you're not a strong ocean swimmer, he recommends only swimming waist deep with your feet touching the bottom. If you find yourself stuck in a rip current, swim parallel to the shoreline and try not to panic.
"If you hear this please contact the nearest lifeguard we have your kid," San Diego Lifeguards announced.
Lieutenant Magness also urges parents to not lose sight of their children
"Supervise your kids closely it's really easy for them to get lost and wander just within 30 seconds," he said.
With these recommendations lifeguards are hopeful you can have a fun and safe day at the beach.
"The beach is really fun here," Jasmine said.
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