Don't dive in water under 9 feet deep

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., June 6 (UPI) -- An estimated 11,000 people sustain spinal cord injuries in the United States each year and diving accidents are among the top five causes, surgeons say.

Sports and recreation accidents are a major contributor to spinal injuries in those under 29 years of age, members of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons said.

The surgeons advise checking for debris before diving and checking the depth as well. They advise against diving in water less than 9 feet deep or into above-ground pools, and they advise swimmers to follow all rules and warning signs posted at water parks, swimming pools and public beaches.

The neurological surgeons also advise that first time one enters a body of water it's a good idea to walk into the water instead of diving. They also say swimmers should never push or shove someone into the water or allow children to do so.