Megan Ferraro Shares Holiday Weekend Water Safety Tips on News 12 Connecticut

Ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, The ZAC Foundation’s Executive Director Megan Ferraro joined News 12 Connecticut to share water safety guidance for families planning to celebrate near the water.

Why Fourth of July Weekend Sees a Spike in Drowning Incidents

“Fourth of July is a holiday weekend where, tragically, we see a spike in drowning in our country,” Megan told reporter Leanna Wells. Whether in open water or a pool, she noted that each aquatic setting poses unique hazards families should be aware of.

According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 in the U.S., and more than 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths occur nationwide each year. Megan encouraged adults to stay within arm’s reach of young children in the water, to always designate someone to keep their eyes on the child, and to talk with kids about what it means to be given permission to go in the water.

What to Do If Someone Is Struggling in the Water

The segment also featured Battalion Chief Brandon Edo of the Milford Fire Department, whose team responds to roughly 50 marine-related calls a year. If someone is struggling in the water, Edo advised calling 911 immediately and throwing them a flotation device — such as a life jacket, throw ring, or boat cushion, rather than jumping in after them. He also reminded viewers that alcohol and water activities do not mix, as alcohol lowers the ability to understand and react to danger.

Watch the full segment on News 12 Connecticut.