Public health authorities urge the public to use extreme care when taking small children to local streams and rivers. Drowning is silent, there may be no splash or scream. Toddlers are normally inquisitive and driven to "explore" their environment, but may easily fall. Drowning may occur in as little as an inch of water. To limit risks, assaign a responsible "Water Watcher" to keep their eyes and ears on children and ignore distractions like mobile phones, books, or snacks. Authorities recommend that "Water Watchers" be able to swim and, if possible, be CPR certified.
