Ways to prevent electric shock drowning.

• Position: Swimming

Water recreation enthusiasts need to be aware of the potential for electric shock drowning. Safe Electricity, a program of the Energy Education Council, Springfield, III., warns that these swimming fatalities occur across the nation every summer.

"Electric current can 'leak' into fresh water lakes, rivers, and elsewhere where docks or boats have faulty wiring or lack safety equipment," explains Molly Hall, executive director of the Energy Education Council. "The same potential can exist with pools that have electrical equipment, as well as hot tubs. It is impossible to tell by sight if water carries electrical current--and, because of moving water, the problem can be intermittent, present only part of the time.

"If swimmers feel anything akin to electric current, they must swim away from the dock or metal ladders--anything that could be energized."

Outdated or worn wiring--along with a lack of proper safety equipment and routine maintenance on docks and boats--can cause electricity to be present in surrounding water. According to the Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association, just 1/50 the wattage of a 60 watt light bulb, between 10 and 15 milliamps, can cause drowning. The electricity can cause muscles to "lock" and render swimmers unable to swim to safety. Stronger levels can cause the heart to stop.

Safe Electricity advises never swim in a marina or around boats plugged into shore power, and avoid swimming near docks with electrical equipment. Follow these tips:

* If you are in the water and feel electric current, such as tingling on the skin or pulsing water, shout to let others know and stay upright with your legs tucked while swimming away from anything that could be energized.

* Never swim toward the boat or dock ladders to exit the water. Swim away from all metal ladders. Head to shore if you can.

* If you are on shore and see someone who you suspect is getting shocked, do not immediately jump in to save that individual or you could become a victim...