Summer is right around the corner and that means protecting our loved ones. As the country starts to return to its pre-pandemic state, families will be flocking to their local watering holes. Lakes, rivers and pools will find families enjoying the refreshing waters. Dangers are more prevalent than before. With the limited lack of swim lessons and ability to practice skills, there will be an increase in the number of drownings in the U.S.
Previously, the second leading cause of death for children under the age of 5 was drowning. This has been changed to the leading cause of death. Florida’s statistics support this. In 2019 there were 65 fatalities. 2020 there were 69 fatalities and last year there were 98 drowning fatalities. Tampa Bay saw 1 in 4 under the age of 18.
Traditionally aquatic professionals talk about the layering system. If you have a pool at home it should be surrounded on all sides by a fence. If the home is used as an entry point then the doors and windows should be locker and not accessible by children. Pool safety fencing and alarms are available to alert adults. Toys should not be left on the pool deck or in the pool. These items will draw children to the area.
CPR training is highly recommended. It takes as little as 4 hours to learn about CPR, AED, and First Aid training. Your prompt response may make the difference of your child surviving. Remember, if your child goes missing check the pool and surrounding bodies of water, if any. Have someone stay there to guard against the child returning and falling in.
Even pets can be in danger. Consider adding a platform that your dog or cat can climb on to get out of the pool. These are commercially found on the Internet.
Consider taking swim lessons. Children can start lessons as early as 6 months of age. Parents attend lessons with the child to make them more comfortable in the water and to support the skills learned in class. Young children can learn to swim and float with competent instruction. Swimming is an ongoing skill development. As your child grows, signaled by the change in clothes sizes, they should get refresher lessons since their body composition has changed.
Children should be taught to ask permission every time they want to get into the water. Drownings have occurred when the child wandered away to go play in the water. The parent was unaware or distracted by other duties. If you are watching your child around the water then it should be the most important thing in your life. Drowning is often silent. You won’t hear your child yell for help as they slip under the water. You are the C.E.O. – Constant Eyes On. If you are considering a pool party this summer consider hiring a pool company which specializes in providing lifeguards for the events. They are highly trained and are insured.
If you go boating – wear a lifejacket. There are 5 different categories of lifejackets. Make sure you select the correct one for the activity. They have various sizes and should be in good condition with no tears or broken buckles. Most importantly – children and adults who don’t know how to swim need to wear the lifejacket and make sure it is fitted correctly.
Water can be a friend or deadly foe. Don’t underestimate its power. Always think safety because in one moment your life can change forever. Let’s go have a safe 2022 Swim Season!
