The number of child drownings in Maricopa County this year had already surpassed last year's total earlier this summer, with the latest incident occurring on Tuesday, when a 1-year-old boy became the 14th victim this year.

The toddler was found in a backyard pool, and Phoenix Police Sergeant Brian Bauer said investigators were unsure how the toddler managed to get through multiple barriers.

“The back door to the pool was locked. It was fenced off,” Bauer said.

Jay Arthur is president of the Arizona Drowning Prevention Coalition, and he stresses the importance of continued monitoring around water.

“We call them designated lifeguards, which means when they have that responsibility poolside, they just have eye contact with the kids and keep an eye on them,” Arthur said.

Arthur says drownings can be prevented through protective measures and education for both children and parents.

As of July 2, Maricopa County has had 41 total water-related deaths this yearThose included 14 children under the age of 12, one teenager and 26 adults, according to the Children's Safety Zone.