Drowning is the leading cause of death for Hawaii children ages 1 to 15 years old, according to the state Department of Health.

Various causes of death that were tracked from 2020 to 2024 found drownings at the top of the list.

Department officials said congenital anomalies were second, followed by influenza and pneumonia, suicide, malignant neoplasm and heart diseases. According to the department, less than 2% of Hawaii’s second-graders have the basic skills to avoid or recover from drowning.

As a result of drowning statistics, the state has developed the 2025 Hawaii Water Safety Plan to help to reduce the numbers. For the report, go to bit.ly/4p3o7h3.

The Hawaii State Department of Health is also developing the first-ever statewide keiki water safety campaign that includes a partnership with the YMCA. The first was started in four locations on Oahu.

Department officials said there are a number of steps that can help to prevent children from drowning, including designating an adult focused and free of distractions to maintain constant visual contact with the children being supervised.

Also, swimming pools should have barriers with latched gates.

The American Red Cross also offers a free online class on water safety.

The department advises people to go to beaches with lifeguards and to pay attention to warning signs and ocean conditions.

A couple of state laws were passed in 2024 to encourage water safety, including a bill designating May 15 as Water Safety Awareness Day.

Kalani Vierra, president of the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association, said the state Legislature also passed a Duke Kahanamoku license plate measure. Funds from the sales of Duke Kahanamu license plates help to raise money for water safety initiatives, including junior lifeguard programs and learn-to-swim courses for younger people.

Vierra said people can request the Duke Kahanamoku license plate starting in November.