To all the students who thought that summer break also meant a learning break: Not so fast, young scholars.

Public safety officials are urging families to take care when they swim. As a result, local young people face something they probably didn't expect until August: getting educated.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 3,600 Americans died by unintentional drowning in 2005. More than 700 others drowned or died from other causes in boating incidents. The percentage of fatal drowning victims age 14 and younger tops 25 percent.

Obviously, being in and around the water carries some risk. You do have a way to limit your exposure, though, and that strategy involves acting safely and responsibly. This message should hit home regardless of your age.

Safety, after all, concerns everyone. So does learning about safety, or any other subject.

Check out local learning centers and swimming pools for water safety tips and education.

You owe it to yourself to be educated in safety. In some cases, living and learning go hand in hand.