Georgia Power released a new public service announcement highlighting water safety as the Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer boating season. Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children 1 to 4 years of age, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health and SPLASH, a longstanding Georgia Department of Natural Resources initiative supported by Georgia Power, aims to greatly reduce the number of these deaths and injuries.

SPLASH encourages citizens to follow these tips when enjoying beaches, pools, lakes, rivers and other bodies of water:

• Supervision – Designate an adult to watch children at all times. Do not assume someone else is watching.

• Prevention – Wear personal flotation devices (PFD or life jacket), install fencing around pools, and use drain covers in pools.

• Look before you leap – Never jump into water without knowing how deep it is and what is below the surface.

• Arm's Length – Adults should be arm's length to children in water, and safety tools such as hooks should be nearby at all times.

• Swim Lessons – Knowing how to swim greatly reduces the chance of drowning. Classes are often available through the Red Cross or YMCA.

• Have a Water Safety Plan – Know what to do during an emergency.