Vermont has had several drowning deaths this season, and state officials from the Health Department, Emergency Management and the State Police are issuing a reminder that swimming in a natural body of water, or enjoying the day on a boat, can be risky.
They’re advising Vermonters to learn how to swim, never swim alone, wear a life vest when boating, never leave a child unsupervised around water, and avoid rivers and streams with high water or strong currents.
Between 1997 and 2007, the Vermont Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reported 106 drowning deaths in the state.
Dr. Harry Chen, the state Health Commissioner, says most of the deaths could have been prevented.
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