Drowning

Last year, the state recorded its highest number of child drowning deaths as 120 children lost their lives.

A 5-year-old boy with autism was found dead Friday after drowning in the retention pond behind his Tampa apartment.

This week on "The Florida Roundup," we spoke with the president of the Florida Sheriffs Association about its official statement on the proposed property tax amendment. Plus, as the number of child drownings continues to rise in Florida, we spoke with two water safety advocates.

Last year, Florida recorded its highest number of child drowning deaths, with nearly 120 children losing their lives. Now, health officials warn the state could surpass that tragic milestone, with at least 74 child drownings reported so far this year, including 15 in South Florida.

Kids with autism can be 160 times more likely than other children to drown. Florida is dedicating state money to a program that prioritizes swim lessons for these kids.

Officials said the drone can deploy the buoy to someone in danger minutes before first responders can arrive on scene and swim out to them.

Even seemingly tranquil water can pose unseen risks due to dangerous currents or water too shallow for diving. Sometimes, hours after leaving the water.

Drowning is the No. 1 cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Health.

The program is for kids four years old and younger whose families might not otherwise be able to afford the lessons.

The report finds 109 children with autism drowned in Florida between January 2012 and April 2024.

Safe Kids Worldwide says 973 children under age 19 drowned in the U.S. in 2021. So before you head to the beach or pool, spend some time going over procedures and tips to keep children safe.

Officials say six people drowned in rip currents over a recent two-day period in Florida, including a couple vacationing on Hutchinson Island from Pennsylvania with their six children and three young men on a Panhandle holiday from Alabama.