Bright swimsuits key to prevent children from drowning, doctors say
Health officials say that caution is critical as drowning incidents continue to be a concern across Suffolk County.
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Swimming lessons are helping Susan Robertson's daughters become safer and more confident in the water, but the Farmingdale mother says she never lets her guard down.
“She knows not to jump in in deep water, especially without a life vest,” Robertson said. “I just think it's really important they know their ability.”
Health officials say that caution is critical as drowning incidents continue to be a concern across Suffolk County.
According to South Shore University Hospital, there have been 55 drowning-related emergency calls in Suffolk County in 2026, including five fatal incidents.
“Suffolk County alone accounts for 70% of the deaths by drowning at swimming pools,” said Dr. Debby Yanes, of South Shore University Hospital. “We are an area that's surrounded by water.”
Experts warn that drowning can happen within seconds, making constant supervision essential whenever children are near water.
Hospital staff are also highlighting an often-overlooked safety measure: the color of a child's swimsuit.
“Dressing our children in these bright, neon-colored bathing suits because they're going to be safer in the water, ” said Hayle Boyle, an injury prevention specialist with Northwell Health. “If children are more visible when they're swimming, it's going to be less likely that they drown.”
To demonstrate the point, hospital staff showed how a blue bathing suit can become nearly invisible underwater in a swimming pool, while brighter colors remain easier to spot.
Robertson says she intentionally chooses brightly colored swimsuits for her daughters.
“Even if I'm outside of the pool, I can see her. I know where she is,” she said.
As summer brings families to pools and beaches across Long Island, safety advocates say swimming skills, vigilant supervision and highly visible swimwear can all play a role in preventing tragedy.
