FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — On Saturday afternoon, Fairfax County police were called to the 1100 block of Pine Hill road to find an adult male had died in his backyard pool.
Police say there was no evidence of foul play, but the man's death marks one of at least three drownings in Northern Virginia this year.
Here are some tips to stay safe while going for a swim, according to Fairfax County Battalion Chief Randal Bittinger.
- If you have a toddler of infant, make sure you have a working gate around your pool, and a plan in place in case someone does accidentally fall in."It's very difficult to get somebody out of the pool if they don’t know how to swim," said Bittinger.
- In the case of adults, it's best to stay out of the water if you've had too much to drink. "If you are gonna drink and be around a pool—remember, you are intoxicated. Your faculties are lessened, your motor functions are lessened," said Bittinger.
- If you're going swimming in a lake or a river, be extra careful of the strong currents that may not be visible from outside. "Tragically, I've run numerous people that have drowned, and some of them in their prime," he said. "Very strong individuals, and sadly they drowned because they underestimated the strength of the rivers."
- In all cases, make sure you have a phone, and someone there with you. "We also encourage people not to swim alone, ever. always have somebody there to watch out for you. On the land, on the dock, on the deck of the pool. that way in case something does god forbid happen, they can call 911," said Bittinger.