With summer getting into full swing and we start to enjoy all the fun swimming and water sports have to offer, it’s a good time to heighten our awareness of water safety to prevent drowning. Swimming pools and lakes can be hypnotic as the water sparkles, ripples and splashes tempting young and old alike to the water’s edge. No one is risk free when it comes to water-related accidents. If you are near the water you are at risk.
It seems all too often the sounds of playful splashes and laughter are shadowed by the news of another child drowning. Child safety takes on a whole new meaning when they are near or playing in water. Even children who are good swimmers can have water-related accidents.
To help keep your children safe in and near the water here are a few simple safety tips:
• Teach your child to swim. It is important to stress swimming lessons will not drown-proof your child. Even good swimmers can drown.
• Never leave children unsupervised near water.
• Be a “Designated Watcher” during social gatherings it is a good idea for adults to take turns being the “designated watcher” who is free from distractions such as telephones, televisions, books or conversations that could distract you even for a second.
• Remove toys from the water. Children can fall into the water trying to retrieve them.
• Beware of drains. Do not allow children to play near or sit on pool drains. Body parts and hair may become entrapped by strong suction.
• Install alarms. If your home serves as part of your pool’s enclosure, protect doors leading into the pool area with an alarm.
These simple safety tips are not fail proof and even under the most diligent adult supervision accidents can and do happen.
Natural bodies of water such as lakes and rivers offer unique and unpredictable conditions. Again, it is important to never let your child swim alone or without adult supervision. Children should always wear life jackets or approved personal flotation devices when boating or fishing. Always descend into water feet first and before jumping into water always check the waters depth.
Swimming pools, lakes, and rivers are great places to build childhood memories and family bonding. Follow these steps and keep your family safe. In community pools keep your eyes and ears open to what’s going on and don’t let a child out of your sight. Drowning is the leading cause of injury death of young children ages 1 to 4, and three children die every day as a result of drowning (CDC). Be prepared for the unthinkable learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); this skill and quick action can help a child stay alive.
We cannot live in plastic bubbles or in fear that something might happen. But, we can live with our eyes and ears open, learn the risk, eliminate risk when possible and be prepared with basic life support / saving skills such as CPR. Live your life building great summer memories-be safe!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
