While a dip in the water is a fun and exciting way to play and exercise under the sun, there are safety precautions that swimmers of all ages should follow.
It is recorded by the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control that about ten people die from unintentional drowning every day. Of these, it is documented that two are children aged 14 or younger and that “drowning ranks fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury death in the United States”
As the temperature reaches its annual peak, be mindful of yourself and your family this summer and enjoy the water properly by following the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s safety tips:
- Teach children how to swim. Giving a child the chance to learn how to swim will help ensure them a safer life as well as one filled with the joys of swimming. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention asserts that “taking part in formal swimming lessons reduces the risk of drowning among children aged 1 to 4 years”
- Never leave a child unattended. Leaving a child unattended near open water is extremely dangerous. Even if you need to leave for just a moment, it is best to always have another adult stay present with the child.
- Teach children to stay away from drains. Items including jewelry and swimwear as well as children’s hair and limbs are able to get stuck in drains and suction openings. It is best to instruct swimmers, especially children, to stay away from drains.
- Ask about drain covers. If you and your family are swimming in a pool that you are unfamiliar with, be sure to inquire to the owner or lifeguard about drain covers. It is best to ask beforehand to ensure that appropriate precautions are being taken.
- Install proper barriers. There are a variety of poolside barriers that can help prevent unsupervised children from reaching the water. Some barriers include fences, alarms, and covers.
- Learn CPR. It makes sense that “bystanders are often the first to aid a drowning victim.” Learning CPR could help you save the life of an adult or child.
These safety tips are just some of the many precautions you can take to help you and your family stay safer around the pool. Also consider prohibiting glass or alcoholic beverages, restricting running or horseplay, and any diving.
This blog is brought to you by our partner, Guard Insurance Agencies. Read the original blog here.