Suffolk Officials Warn Of Dangers Of Recreational Water Use Ahead Of Heatwave, After 7 Die So Far In 2026

SHIRLEY, NY — Suffolk officials will be joined by the families of loved ones who succumbed to drowning, and other water safety advocates at Smith Point County Park at a press conference Tuesday, ahead of this week's expected heatwave which will likely spark a spike in recreational water use.

The county's Fire, Rescue, and Emergency officials saw 119 water-related calls, including 16 drownings in 2025. Seven people have succumbed to drownings, so far in 2026.

A toddler was found unresponsive in a pool in Mastic Beach over the weekend. Police have not updated the case.

County Executive Ed Romaine is expected to urge "extreme caution" when enjoying beaches and pools this week, county officials stated in a news release Tuesday morning.

Romaine will also announce preparations the county is taking in advance of the upcoming heat wave — with forecasts between 105 and 111 — that is expected for the region this week.

The news conference is expected to begin at 12:30 p.m.

FRES Commissioner Rudolph Sunderman noted that not all accidents are preventable, "but there are certainly a number of things" residents can do "to be as safe as possible when swimming or out on the water.”

He offered these tips ahead of the holiday weekend, including general safety swimming guidelines:

• If you believe someone is in distress call 911 and be sure to listen closely and follow Emergency Services Dispatcher instructions.
• Never leave a child unattended near water, including but not limited to pools, beaches, boats and tubs.
• Make sure that if someone is going to go swimming, they have had lessons. There are multiple businesses that offer lessons, but so do many of our local towns. For those
  interested in Town Swimming lessons contact your local town. Lesson spots may still be available, but they are going fast.
• Learn hands only Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, for lessons contact your local Fire or Emergency Medical Services agency or reach out to Suffolk EMS at 631-852-5080.
• Never swim alone.
• Do not use alcohol and drugs when you are swimming, responsible for those who are swimming, or operating a boat.

Private Pool Safety Guidelines:

He also advised never leaving a child unattended in a yard with a pool or near the water’s edge, and avoiding diving in pools unless the pool is designated for diving, as well as never relying on air-filled or foam toys to keep a person afloat. Observing compliance with local ordinances regarding fencing, gates and pool and door alarms was also advised.

Public Pool Safety Guidelines:

He advised only swimming in public pools during hours of operation when there is a lifeguard on duty, and listening to the guidance of the lifeguards, and knowing and obeying pool rules. It is also advised to make sure to know the depth of the pool.

Beach Safety Guidelines:

• Only swim at public beaches during hours of operation when there is a lifeguard on duty.
  Swim only in designated areas which are marked safe swimming areas. Avoid swimming
  at unpatrolled beaches.
• Never swim after dark. If the lifeguards are not on duty, you should not be in the water.
  Never swim during thunderstorms or severe weather conditions. Be aware of rip currents.
• If you are not a strong swimmer, consider taking swimming lessons.

Boating Safety Guidelines:

When boating it is important to obey all local ordinances regarding boat operations, this
includes making sure that you have taken the required New York State boating safety
Course. Whether you are operating a motorized or non-motorized vessel, personal watercraft specialty craft, sailboat, kayak, canoe, or paddle board, you are required to have one U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for each person on board. Always ensure that all children under 12 are wearing a life jacket.

Be aware of your surroundings, pay attention to other boats, navigation markers, potential hazards, and the weather conditions. Do not operate a boat in severe weather conditions. In the event of an on-board emergency, call 911 and listen to the instructions of the Emergency Services Dispatcher, the Harbormaster, Law enforcement marine personnel, and US Coast Guard personnel who are specially trained in handling on-board emergency situations.
For additional information on pool safety, visit these resources:
• suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/FRES/Prevent-Child-Drownings
• poolsafely.gov/