A tragedy that took place in our area this past week has totally changed what I am going to write about today. A vibrant young lady on a youth group outing died and three other members of the group were injured, one critically. These youth had been swimming in a fresh water lake and (my understanding) when preparing to climb out of the lake at a boathouse area were electrocuted. It happened in an instant and has changed so many lives forever.
In the week following this tragic accident, I ran across articles that several folks had posted on social media about something called Electric Shock Drowning. I had never heard of such a thing and I dare say most people have not either. I have spent all my life recreating at lakes from time to time and my immediate family does, as well. I have often swam near and up to boathouse docks without thinking a thing about it. After reading, I now understand that there are some potential dangers in doing so.
“Although Electric Shock Drowning (ESD) can occur virtually in any location where electricity is provided near water, the majority of Electric Shock Drowning deaths have occurred in public and private marinas and docks. The typical victim of Electric Shock Drowning is a child swimming in or around a marina or dock where electricity is present. The electricity that enters the water and causes Electric Shock Drowning originates from the wiring of the dock or marina, or from boats that are connected to the marina’s or dock’s power supply.”-Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association
To find out more about the causes, signs, and preventative steps to avoid ESD, please have a look at these resources:
Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association-Good source of information. Started by Kevin Ritz and his wife whose son passed away from ESD.
Boat U.S. Electric Shock Drowning Resource Center–Comprehensive collection of information links provided by the Boat Owners Association of the United States.
Thank you for taking the time to learning about Electric Shock Drowning. Please share these links with family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc..
So serious! I know that it also can occur when older pool lights get corroded wiring and spas. Also they need to be grounded properly. Scary right!! I’ve always been a swimmer and it was news to me a few years ago. Thanks for sharing at My Favorite Things party. Co host Theresa @DearCreatives
Yes, grew up going to a friend’s floating lake house and regularly swam in the boat well without ever thinking a thing about it. Trying my best to help spread the word.