Drowning may be one of the most remorseful fatal accidents to occur at a home. Why? Because its entirely preventable. It's most often due to human error, negligence, distraction, forgetfulness or lack of pool safety education. If you own a pool or spa, you owe it to all who will use these amenities that they're updated with anti-entrapment
drain covers, barriers and rescue equipment. You and other adults in your household must know rescue techniques and be able to supervise swimming and pool-area activities at all times. Follow these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and National Drowning Prevention Alliance
Consider All 'Children' at Risk
What age group is most at risk for drowning? That should be which age groups? Young children and teens are at greatest risk for drowning. Statistically, children under 5 and adolescents between the ages of 15 and 24 have the highest drowning rates.Use Layers of Protection
The "seven layers of protection" practice was introduced around the time that the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was signed into law by President George W. Bush -- December of 2007. Learn them.Adult Supervision Means Uninterrupted Focus on the Pool & Swimmers
At all times. No exceptions, not even for:
- The text message you have to look at or respond to.
- The phone call -- even on your cell -- you need to make or take.
- The hedges over there that need clipping.
- The snacks you need to get from the kitchen.
- The work you need to complete by tomorrow
- Looking directly at the person you're having a conversation with. They can still hear you even if your eyes or focused on young swimmers.
- Any other distractions not listed here.
Learn CPR & Safe Water-Rescue Techniques
You know that class in first-aid or CPR at the local 'Y' you've been meaning to sign up for? Contact them today. It may be the monkey on your back that you've been trying to avoid, but accidents don't wait for procrastinators or busy schedules.Enroll Your Children in Swim Lessons & Water Safety Education
This is always a good idea, whether or not you own a pool or spa. Most children go swimming in the summertime. They need to learn the basic and proper techniques for swimming and water safety. Do not, however, let the fact that your children have had lessons give you a false sense of security. The unexpected can happen.Your Own Backyard: An Unsafe Haven?
Home can be the most dangerous place. Childhood drownings occur most often in residential swimming pools. Often, it's right in the young victim's' own backyard. You may have your layers of protection in place, but nothing can substitute for undistracted adult supervision.Pools are More Dangerous Than Cars for the Under-4 Set
Swimming is a greater risk than riding in a car. A swimming pool is 14 times more likely than a motor vehicle to be involved in the death of a child under the age 4.Then There are the Near-Drownings
If they don't drown, victims still can suffer serious injuries. An estimated 5,000 children ages 14 and under are hospitalized due to near-drownings each year. As many as 20 percent suffer severe, permanent neurological disability.Swimming & Drinking: A Lethal Mix
Alcohol is often a contributing factor. Alcohol use is involved in a significant number of teen and adult drownings. In fact, alcohol is a major contributing factor in up to 50% of drownings among adolescent boys. Who hasn't' heard about guys at a frat party jumping off the roof into the backyard pool or other stupid antics at parties?Don't Swim Alone
This rule goes way back, but it still holds up. It's a good rule for children and some adults who aren't accustomed to swimming or who might have health issues that could impair their ability to swim safely by themselves. Check with your doctor.
