About 50 percent of drowning victims had been drinking alcoholic beverages. Intoxicated persons can drown in water in which they normally could stand up if alcohol had not affected their physical abilities. Don't swim off boat docks and marinas. Boat propellers and electrical currents from the facility's electrical system may cause injury. Don't swim in open water.
Waves can obscure a swimmer in the water.
Fatigue and muscle cramping may hinder the ability to return to shore. Be cautious any time you're around water. Only about 50 percent of drowning occur during the summer months. Last updated May 21, 2001.