With the summer rapidly approaching, we wanted to take a minute to discuss the importance of pool safety!
According to the CDC, drowning kills more children between the ages of 1-3 than anything else, excluding birth defects. It is estimated that three children die every day as a result of drowning. It can happen to anyone, and it can happen quickly and quietly. As a parent or caregiver, you can play a huge role in keeping your child safe with some key prevention tips!
1. Pool Fences & door alarms:
Make sure there is a 4-sided fence with self-locking gates. These should be placed about 3-5 feet from the pool deck. Remove all patio furniture that could be moved and used to climb over the fence. Never let your children climb or play on the fence. Make sure all windows and doors leading out to the pool area have alarms to alert you.
2. Life Jackets:
When your child is around any natural body of water, such as lakes or oceans, they should be wearing a life vest. This is recommended even for children who know how to swim. These can be used around pools as well for those weaker swimmers.
3. Know CPR:
This could be life-saving if there is ever a drowning situation! Become certified & keep your skills up to date yearly.
4. Supervision:
There should always be an adult actively watching children while they are swimming. Designate a “watcher” if there are multiple children. This watcher keeps an eye on all the children for 15 minutes and then switches with someone else who does the same. If a child is missing, always check the pool FIRST before looking in the surrounding area. Avoid distractions such as talking on the phone, reading a book, using alcohol, etc., while watching children in the pool area.
5. Survival classes:
All children should take swimming survival lessons, often known as ISR Self-Rescue. These classes teach children how to save themselves if they ever find themselves alone in the water. Most classes are offered as young as 6 months of age.
Here are some resources to find a swim safety class near you!
https://ymcacentralflorida.com/aquatics/drowning-prevention/safe-start/
https://www.safetyfirstswim.com/
