LYNN — Following the apparent drowning death of Jose Angel Capellan Rodriguez on Sunday, police are reminding residents of swimming safety.
“As the weather becomes warmer, one of the most enjoyable activities that people do is swimming,” Lynn Police said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the death of a 13-year-old Breed Middle School student on Sunday reminds us that drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children between the age of one and 14. Every year, we are reminded of these tragic stories.”
Police urge residents to swim only in places where it’s allowed. Be aware that bodies of water, such as ponds and reservoirs, often contain logs, tree branches, weeds and other hazards that are not visible on the surface. Even a strong swimmer can become entangled in these dangers, police said.
An unsuspecting person wading in the water, which is typically cloudy, could suddenly find that the bottom drops off into deeper water, even close to the shore line. No matter where a person is swimming, use caution and know their limits, police said.
Police remind residents that swimming in the reservoir is illegal and violators are subject to arrest and a fine. Lynn Police officers are on the lookout for illegal bathers in the reservoirs. They ask residents to take advantage of the many nearby beaches. Places where people are allowed to swim will often have signs explaining the cautions and restrictions, police said.
“If you are not a strong swimmer or do not know how to swim, respect this fact and do not compromise your safety,” police said. “When planning a day at the beach or near any other body of water, try to bring a cell phone and know your exact location. In the event of an emergency, this will save precious minutes.”