Video: Preventing youth drownings

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SEATTLE - Teenagers, especially boys, are more likely than any other age group to drown.

But there are some simple yet powerful ways your teen can prevent a tragedy in the water.

Seattle Parks and Recreation lifeguard Kyle Maxwell says trying to save a buddy from drowning isn't simple.

"They're starting to panic," Maxwell said. "And what they'll do is if you try and rescue them, and help them, they will take you under the water."

It's why lifeguards use floatation devices to reach a swimmer in trouble.

Knowing your limits can save your life. But teens, especially boys, often over-judge their own swim skills, especially while swimming with friends. It can lead to tragedy.

"A huge factor in why we see drowning rates are often highest in the adolescent is because the peer pressure is so great," said Dr. Linda Quan, of Seattle Children's Hospital.

Quan, a nationally recognized water safety expert, says drugs and drinking play a big role in teen drownings too.

"There's no question that alcohol consumption increases the risk of drowning," she said. "Water activities and alcohol do not mix."

At Seattle's Madison Park Beach, lifeguards rescued 15 swimmers in the first month of summer.

Head lifeguard Kyle Maxwell says it's important to understand the signs that someone is in trouble.

"Most importantly when they start going vertical, and when their arm movements are not a designated stroke," he said.

Within 30 seconds a swimmer can go under.

Maxwell says lifeguards rarely hear a cry for help because a panicked swimmer thinks only about getting a breath.

On a beach with lifeguards someone can come to a teen's rescue, but there's a way you can save yourself.

"The best thing to do is to actually roll over on your back and float, keeping your head back and your tummy up," Maxwell said.

Calming the panic and beginning a gentle rhythmic back stroke will get you to safer waters.

Teens who plan to swim in open water should bring life jackets, or other floatation devices just in case. And to be safe, don't swim alone.

It's important for teens to practice the survival techniques before they get into trouble on the water.