Prevent Drowning Accidents

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Sadly, the end of summer does not mean the end of drowning incidents.

Along with barbeques, pool parties, and family lake trips comes the need to practice water safety. The most important thing a parent or guardian can do is prevent water- related injuries or death.

According to the CDC, drowning is ranked as the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury in the United States.  Additionally, children ages 1 to 4 have the highest drowning rates.

In 2011, Arizona ranked the third highest in the number of childhood drownings. More must be done to prevent these incidents.

Tips to help prevent drowning accidents

  • Fence off pool areas with barriers that are at least four feet tall. Make sure there is no space for a child to squeeze through. Self-closing or self-latching gates are ideal for stopping children from enter a pool area unattended.
  • Make sure your children receive swim lessons.
  • Remove all toys, ladders, and flotation devices from the pool to deter children from trying to reach for them and potentially falling in the water.
  • Check that all drains have covers. Drains may have very powerful suction that can cause injury to a child, or even keep them trapped under water.
  • Use life jackets for weaker swimmers.
  • Pay very close attention to children in pools. Do not allow for distractions such as phone calls, door bells, or conversations.
  • Learn how to administer CPR. There are many classes available to learn this training.
  • Enforce pool safety rules around the pool to prevent accidental injuries and drowning.

Pool Safety Checklist

Making pool safety a priority will keep your family, friends and neighbors safe around your pool. Make time to check drains and barriers, purchase life jackets and other flotation devices you may need, and teach water safety skills to everyone who will be enjoying your pool.

This information is provided as a public service by Hollingsworth Kelly and is not intended to serve as legal advice.