May is Water Safety Month
As the temperatures rise, families flock to the pool to cool off. Most parents understand the importance of water safety, but it takes only a few moments for a child to drown. Drowning is often silent and quick, not like the shouting and splashing seen on television and movies. Drowning happens so often, it is the number two cause of death in children in the United States. Here are three ways to ensure that your child has a safe time at the pool.
Proper Supervision
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult while at the pool. Do not assume that someone else is watching your child. Weak swimmers should be within arms reach in case they begin to sink. If there is a pool party, create a rotation schedule with other parents so the children are being supervised. When the parent understands their responsibility, distractions are reduced.
Swim School
When a child attends formal swimming lessons, their risk of drowning is reduced by 88 percent. Children that are afraid of drowning tend to have low or no swimming experience. Swimming lessons can begin at a young age, with experienced instructors teaching children how to swim safely in the water. Swimming lessons are often conducted at public pools, athletic centers, or high schools (if they have a swim team).
Create a Safe Swimming Environment
This applies to those who have a pool at home. Install a fence around your pool to prevent children from accidentally falling in. In some areas, having a barrier around the pool is required by law, so check your local legislation. Fences should not be easy to climb or have latches that the child can reach. When pool toys are not in use, keep them out of the pool. Children may be tempted to reach over and grab the toys, which can cause them to fall in.
In Conclusion
Drowning affects families around the country every summer. While it is scary, it does not mean that children must stay away from the pool. By being proactive about water safety, you and your family can enjoy summer days at the pool.
Attached is a brochure by apsp.org The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your In-ground Swimming Pool
