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We uncovered some startling statistics when it comes to drowning.

Each year, nearly 300 children under the age of five drown in residential and public pools and spas.

Nora Ruiz with the local chapter of the American Red Cross knows accidents can happen anywhere, anytime.

When you put water into the mix it can be dangerous. 

Since drowning is the second leading cause of death for children in this country.

Ruiz tells Action 4 News, "The most common deaths are with children under the age of five."

Nationally the Consumer Product Safety Commission has teamed up with the Red Cross and various other agencies to put out a public service announcement about pool safety and how simple steps can save lives.

Ruiz says, "There is a lot of cases that we do hear where they just take their eyes off of them for a second and that second is all that they need for an emergency situation to happen."

Back in May tragedy unfolded in two separate drownings.

One in Mercedes, after police there say a father left his 6 year old and other children in an apartment complex pool for a moment under the supervision of a teenage relative, the little boy drowned.

Weeks later police found an unresponsive baby at a home in La Feria.

Investigators say the 19 month old boy drowned in the family pool.

According to the mother she left the baby unattended for a moment when he drowned.

Ruiz tells Action 4 News, "Our best advice to parents is that never leave your children un attended.." Ruiz says also make sure your child is wearing the proper gear for swimming, with so many things on the market you want to make a safe choice.

Ruiz says, "We never promote the usage of actual floaters that actually go on the arms or using the flotation devices like the lay outs or little tubes." 

The Red Cross also recommends a life jacket that is certified by the US Coast Guard. 
Other pool precautions include installing a pool alarm with an under water sensor and installing drain covers with dome or pyramid shapes. 

The Red Cross also recommends taking part in a "Learn to Swim program".

To sign up just up contact your city's Parks and Recreation department, classes are free and  taught by Red Cross volunteers.