The Orange County Fire Authority is offering drowning prevention and safety classes for children and adults, as part of an effort to help prevent needless tragedies.

Drowning is the leading cause of accidental injury and death in children under five and the second leading cause of death in children under the age of 14. Last year, there were 32 reported drowning deaths and 24 near-drowning incidents in Orange County. Since the beginning of the year, there have been four drowning deaths and four near-drowning incidents.

The drowning prevention and water safety classes feature "Stewie the Duck" - a fun and colorful book - along with instruction from an education specialist.

For more information and to schedule a class, contact the Community Relations and Education Services Section at 714-573-6200.