The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that, on average, more than 3,800 people drown each year in the United States.

Maine has already experienced a series of tragic drownings this year, even before summer’s swelter drives us into the water in search of relief. The striking commonality that links these tragedies is that, in virtually every case, those who knew the drowning victims described them as experienced swimmers.

With that cautionary note, we share the following swimming safety reminders from www.livestrong.com.

— The American Academy of Pediatrics endorses formal swimming instruction for most children ages 4 years and older. Teens and adults who don’t know how to swim should learn to do so and restrict wading or bathing to shallow water only and in the presence of a lifeguard.

— Children should never be allowed to swim unsupervised by adults anywhere. The CDC reports that most accidental drownings of children ages 1 to 4 occur in residential pools and most of those victims were reported seen within the home less than five minutes prior while in the care of at least one parent. Children can drown in less than two inches of water.

— When swimming in bodies of water other than residential pools, swim only when a lifeguard is on duty and in areas designated for swimming. Many of this year’s and last year’s drownings in Maine occurred in swimming holes without lifeguards. When a swimmer becomes distressed, for any reason, the presence of a lifeguard often means the difference between rescue and recovery.

— Even strong swimmers can succumb to the effects of alcohol and drugs while in the water. Being under the influence of either or both seriously impairs judgment and coordination and increases the risk of injury or drowning.

— Never swim alone. As tempting as it may be to catch some time alone in the backyard pool, deserted lake or ocean, do not do it. Always swim with a buddy in a residential pool and with a lifeguard present in any other pool or body of water.

— Never swim during a thunderstorm. If swimming in a residential pool, exit the water immediately when you hear thunder. Lightning often strikes water and water conducts electricity.

— Do not dive headfirst into shallow or murky water, or water of uncertain depth. Diving into murky water such as ponds, quarries or lakes without knowing the depth or underwater environment is dangerous. Rocks and other objects in the water pose hazards. It is best to enter the water feetfirst.

— Refrain from horseplay such as dunking, hanging on to someone or allowing them to hang on to you while in the water. Horseplay can lead to injury while in the water, thus increasing the risk of drowning.

— The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that inflatable toys, rafts, air mattresses and water wings should never be used as lifesaving devices for children and that only life jackets and life preservers approved by the U.S. Coast Guard should be used. Always wear an approved life jacket when boating, even close to land.

— It is a good idea for adults, especially those who are parents or who care for children, to learn basic first aid and CPR.

— The CDC recommends four-sided pool fences at least 4 feet high with selfclosing, self-latching gates unreachable by children and that open outward.

Stay cool and safe in the water this summer. We’d much rather publish photos of Mainers and visitors safely enjoying our wonderful lakes, ponds and coastal beaches than more tragic stories of water-related fatalities.