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First responders and medical professionals warn of drowning dangers for children ahead of Memorial Day

Doctors from Good Samaritan Hospital said children should always be supervised in the water and pools must be fenced with child-proof gates.

Mike Smollins

May 18, 2026, 6:12 PM

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With the temperatures rising on Monday and summer right around the corner, first responders and medical professionals hosted a pediatric drowning prevention event at Tanner Park in Copiague.

Doctors from Good Samaritan Hospital said children should always be supervised in the water and pools must be fenced with child-proof gates.

"We are here to raise awareness about water safety, heat safety, and prevent drownings," said Dr. Cornelia Muntean, of Good Samaritan University Hospital. "It's important for us and for you to enjoy summer but at the same time we need to be safe and we have to keep our children and families safe."

Doctors said heat-related illnesses are also a concern in the summer months and recommended wearing sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher.

At the beach, experts say that swimmers should be wary of rip currents, and only swim when lifeguards are present.

Ahead of Memorial Day weekend, the event served as a reminder that drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death among young children. The event also aimed to educate the public on simple but lifesaving precautions.

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