Drowning is the second highest cause of unintentional death for children ages 1-4 and 10-14. Parents and grandparents should not be fooled into thinking that their child is safe just because he/she knows how to swim.
Pool accidents can happen very suddenly and without warning, so it is imperative that all family members follow some basic safety precautions, especially if there is a swimming pool at home.
Never leave a child alone near water, even near small portable pools, buckets or fountains. There is danger of drowning even in small bodies of water.
Never allow a youngster to swim alone or without adult supervision.
Children with no knowledge of swimming should not be in or around the pool.
Children under 4 should be accompanied by an adult when in the pool.
Enroll children in swimming lessons taught by a qualified instructor. Lessons won’t make them “drown-proof,” but it will increase their safety and allow them to have fun in the water.
In case of a backyard swimming pool, make sure that the cover of the pool is completely lifted over the pool and not partially open. Also, be sure there is a lifesaving flotation device near the pool, as well as a first-aid kit.
Many accidents are due to broken or improperly installed drain covers. New drain covers are designed to resist UV degradation and prevent body parts or hair becoming trapped due to suction.
A home pool should be surrounded by a tall fence with a gate that locks.
Teach children to never dive or jump into unknown water or dive in shallow water and to always obey no swimming or other warning signs.
Perhaps most important of all, be observant. Supervise children’s activities. Simply being near your child is not supervising. Adults should take turns paying close attention.
Here are some good questions that parents and grandparents can ask children to help them prepare for fun in the sun.
1. Is it better to walk or run around the pool? Why?
2. What should you do if you drop your favorite toy in the pool?
3. Should you jump into the pool to try to save a drowning person?
4. What should you do if someone is in the pool and they need help?
5. How do you dial 911?
6. Is it all right to get into the water when no adult is close by?
7. Should you ever swim by yourself?
If you enroll a child in a swim class, look for programs that teach gentle, gradual, child-paced curriculums. Request a free skill assessment so lessons are geared to the level and readiness of the child. No child should grow up with a fear of the water or be denied the many pleasures of engaging in swimming and other water sports.
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