Summer is here in the Bahamas and at 100-plus degrees outside, it's a special time for having fun in the water. However, drowning is a leading cause of accidental death, and we must always be aware of the danger.

Internationally, each year more than 1,000 children under the age of 14 drown. Another 16,000 are rushed to hospitals for near-drowning. Children ages 4 and under are at the greatest risk. Many adults do not realize that a child can drown in as little as one inch of water.

Most drowning occurs at home or in residential pools. Drowning is many times called the "silent killer". You might not hear a cry for help or the sound of a splash to alert you that a child is in trouble. To keep your summer fun and tragedy-free, follow these safety tips