At the close of 2018, we saw some amazing news in the world of water safety. While drowning remains a very real danger to every person who steps into the water, it was a year packed with progress. Here are the drowning stats for December 2018.

Each month, Life Saver Pool Fence is shares the most current drowning statistics from USA Swimming. These comprehensive drowning stats for the month of December shine a light on certain trends that demonstrate areas where further education and caution are needed. Additionally, we have an extra treat before we close the book on 2018. There is an additional chart showing promising year-by-year statistics.

U.S. Drowning Stats for December 2018

USA Swimming’s December 2018 statistics show the number of drowning deaths across the nation throughout the past month. As you’ll see in the first chart, the statistics compare this December’s numbers to previous Decembers going back to the year 2009.

The chart focuses on four key age groups affected by drowning:

  • Children aged four and younger
  • Children aged 12 and under
  • Teenagers
  • Adults, meaning anyone older than teens

Chart: U.S. Drowning Stats for December 2018

December Total Child 4 & Under Child 12 & Under Teen Adult
2018-Dec 58 7 2 1 46
2017-Dec 61 10 5 3 43
2016-Dec 69 8 5 6 50
2015-Dec 72 7 4 5 56
2014-Dec 51 9 4 3 35
2013-Dec 42 5 1 2 34
2012-Dec 61 12 12 8 29
2011-Dec 62 13 4 3 42
2010-Dec 62 8 3 1 50
2009-Dec 54 8 3 9 34

That first chart is monthly, but this next one takes the total annual numbers into account. It turns out that last year had the lowest number of total drownings since the year 2009. As you can see, through education and practice, we are making progress with national efforts and initiatives  to decrease drowning. Adults are the category that has seen the biggest decreases over time.

Chart: Total U.S. Drowning Stats Year by Year

Yearly Summary Total Child 4 & Under Child 12 & Under Teen Adult
2018 2077 336 163 198 1378
2017 2264 341 191 254 1478
2016 2390 368 192 298 1532
2015 2163 350 158 226 1429
2014 2135 321 192 236 1386
2013 2113 287 169 243 1414
2012 2343 389 214 285 1455
2011 2414 419 216 251 1528
2010 2273 410 210 279 1374
2009 1941 356 178 271 1136

Exploring these drowning stats, we can truly see the value of continual education. When adults and children understand and respect pool safety, good things happen!

drowning stats 2018

Understanding These Stats

As stated above, USA Swimming has graciously provided these drowning statistics. This organization is the national governing body for competitive swimming in the United States. It is an extension of the United States Olympic Committee. In fact, USA Swimming is charged with selecting the United States Olympic Swimming team and any other swimming teams that officially represent the nation.

Above all else, USA Swimming sets the rules for competitive swimming in the United States. It employs coaches and helps to promote safe swimming. When it comes to best swimming practices, they know their stuff! If you’d like to learn more, you can watch our full Child Safety Source interview with Mick Nelson, the Facilities Development Director for USA Swimming. Additionally, you can visit their official website.