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When the weather heats up, swimming is many children’s favorite summer activity. It is important to remember that the risks associated with water and drowning are real. Drowning is one of the top five causes of death of children from the ages of 1-14 years. For every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency department care for related nonfatal injuries.
The good news is that drowning is a preventable tragedy. Whether it’s a dip in your local or backyard pool or a trip to the beach, ensuring that swimming is both safe and fun this summer can be accomplished by following a few basic safety tips.
The ABC's of Drowning Prevention
A is for Adult Supervision
- The key to drowning prevention is adult supervision.
- Active adult supervision should be provided 100% of the time while children are in or near the water.
- Water wings, inner tubes and other inflatable flotation devices should NEVER take the place of adult supervision, especially those children up to age 5.
- Knowing where your children are at all times. Almost 70% of children who drown in swimming pools were not supposed to be in or around the water.
B is for Barriers
- Install and always use a childproof barrier around your pool and spa area.
- Ensure that the barrier is at least 5 feet tall, self-closing and with a self-latching gate to separate the pool from the house and yard.
- Keep doors and windows that lead to the pool area locked or install alarm devices.
- Remove toys from the pool area when not in use – they attract young children to the pool.
- Keep tables, chairs and other items that can be climbed on away from the pool barrier.
C is for CPR & Classes
- Learn and know how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
- Ensure that all children and adults in your family go to swimming lessons. However, classes do not replace the need for adult supervision and barriers.
If you have lost a loved one in a drowning accident, we are deeply sorry for your loss. If this loss occurred due to the negligence of another person, you may be able to file a drowning lawsuit. While this will not erase the loss, it may help you get the accountability you need. If your loved one was injured in a drowning accident, a lawsuit can help you get compensation for ongoing medical care and disability.
Our personal injury attorneys are here to help. Please contact Hupy and Abraham with any questions at 800-800-5678, or start a live chat anytime at Hupy.com.
