Lifeguards Share Dangers of Drowning Rescues - KTUL.com - Tulsa, Oklahoma - News, Weather & Sports

In light of recent drownings, including one where a man died saving a child, Tulsa lifeguards reminded Channel 8 about the dangers of performing water rescues.

Miller's Swim School Instructor Michael Heyd said it is always best to let lifeguards perform rescues. However, in the event a lifeguard is not present, he said to offer them, "anything you can reach out to them with, without having to go out into the water yourself, is best. The next best thing you can do is find something that floats."

He said to always let someone know before you attempt to rescue someone.

Lifeguards at LaFortune told Channel 8 you can use anything that floats, like a pool noodle, life vest, or raft, to help rescue someone. They said to keep the flotation device between you and the victim, so the victim cannot pull you under.

The lifeguards Channel 8 spoke with encouraged everyone to be safe over the 4th of July holiday.