Taking your kids to the pool? Test your swim safety knowledge before you go

NPR | By Marielle Segarra,

Malaka Gharib

Published June 7, 2024 at 6:47 AM AKDT

Swimming lessons can be a powerful tool to prevent drowning.

Updated May 22, 2026 at 6:55 AM AKDT

This story was originally published on June 7, 2024, and has been updated.

One of the joys of summer is taking your kids for a dip in the pool or the ocean on a hot day. But as refreshing and fun as water can be, it can also be dangerous.

Although drowning is preventable, it is the No. 1 cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And it's the second-leading cause of death for kids ages 5 to 14.

Take our quiz to test your knowledge on the subject. Then listen to our episode, "These water safety tips can save lives," for more guidance.

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Marielle Segarra

Marielle Segarra was WHYY's Keystone Crossroads reporter. She reported for the multi-station partnership on urban policy, crumbling infrastructure and how distressed Pennsylvania cities are bouncing back. As a freelance radio reporter, her stories have also aired on Latino USA, WNYC, WBUR and other NPR member stations.

Malaka Gharib

Malaka Gharib is the digital editor of the NPR podcast Life Kit.