As the weather gets hotter, first responders are picking up on a disturbing trend.
"We are very concerned about drownings this year," said MedStar's Matt Zavadsky. "Last May, we responded to one drowning case. This [month], we have responded to seven. Including the one yesterday in Lake Worth."
The body of a 16-year-old was pulled out of Lake Worth yesterday morning. Officials say the boy, identified as Sergio Molina, waded into the water Monday night and never resurfaced.
"A lot of people have the false belief that drowning is a loud event," Zavadsky said. "That really is not true. Drowning is a very silent event and unless you're really paying attention ... you may not even recognize that someone has gone under."
Zavadsky said there are a couple of theories as to why so many more drownings have been reported this year: It’s been hot lately, and people are flocking to lakes and pools to stay cool. Also, more people are out and about after social distancing for nearly two years.
He said if you're in the water, you need to keep a sharp eye out and never forget how quickly things can become dangerous.
"Pay attention," Zavadsky said. "Water can be life-threatening."
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