Childhood drowning rates vary substantially among demographic groups with higher rates among toddlers than children aged 5–14, higher rates among nonwhites than whites, and higher rates among males than females. To assess swimming frequency, ability, and site as possible causes of these differences, questions were added about these items to a survey administered on-site to families using New Jersey's public beaches. Responses describing 6,366 children indicated that swimming competence increased markedly at about age 5, was greater among whites than nonwhites, and was similar for males and females. Swimming frequency was greatest among children aged 5–9 and did not differ substantially by race or sex. Few families swam at unguarded sites. Subject to limitations related to the sampling procedure, we conclude that differences in swimming exposure are not likely to explain age, race, and sex differences in childhood drowning rates. Differences in swimming competence may explain age and race (but not sex) differences in childhood drowning rates, but additional work is needed to determine whether they actually do so.
