“The number of drowning fatalities of children younger than five in swimming pools and spas has increased to a yearly average of 283 for the years 2003 to 2005 from a yearly average of 267 for the years 2002 to 2004, according to a report released Wednesday by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Most of the deaths occurred in residential pools and spas and involved children ages one and two. Drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages one to four.
The report also noted that the number of emergency room visits for injuries caused by pool or spa submersions decreased from a yearly average of 2,800 in the years 2004 to 2006 to an average of 2,700 for each of the years 2005 to 2007.”
This quote came from www.ConsumerReports.org, May 22, 2009.
Here are some water safety tips to keep in mind throughout the summer.
- Tell your child not to dive in water shallower than 9 feet.
- Teach your child to stay away from the pool and hot tub drains. Be sure to install drain covers.
- Always keep your eyes on your child in the water, wherever it may be. A few seconds could be the difference between life and death! If your child is age 4 or under, an adult should always be within arm’s reach.
- Hot tubs and pools should be surrounded by a fence at least 5′ high. Though they are a good idea, pool alarms don’t prevent accidents and don’t keep kids safe.
- Just because your child knows how to swim does not mean he/she will not ever drown. Accidents, fatigue, etc. can still happen.
- Take out all the pool toys at the end of the day so children won’t be tempted to reach for one when you’re not looking.
These ideas came from Women’s Day magazine, June 2, 2009 issue.
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