May is National Drowning Prevention Month. Sadly, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 years old, and approximately 4,000 people die from downing in the U.S. per year. According to the CDC, "Drowning can happen in seconds and is often silent. It can happen to anyone, any time there is access to water." As we approach the summer, it is important that we keep water safety in mind and be vigilant that we are doing everything we can to protect our children. Drowning is preventable, so here are some safety tips to implement to help prevent a tragedy.
1. Designate a water watcher.
The adult who is the designated water watcher should have no distractions, such as a phone, and be committed to being the lifeguard. If possible, this person should ideally be switched out every 20 minutes to keep the water watcher fresh and alert.
2. Wear bright-colored bathing suits
The color of your bathing suit makes a difference in how visible you are in the water. Solid neons are most visible. If a child is drowning, they are easier to spot under the surface of the water if they are wearing a brightly colored bathing suit. Plus, the color will help your child stand out in a crowded pool.
3. Fence your pool and install alarms
Even if you don't own a pool, be aware of this when you are visiting people with a pool or at a rental house on vacation. Also, consider what pet doors you have, as those can also pose a risk if your child can squeeze through them.
4. Put your child in swim lessons
A child knowing how to swim and float is invaluable and provides another important layer of protection against drowning. I highly recommend Infant Swimming Resources lessons. You can read more about my family's personal experience with ISR lessons here. Juliana Marino at Float2Swim offers ISR lessons in Vero Beach. You can contact her at (772) 913 - 0805.
5. Take all toys out of the pool for storage
Toys in the pool can be a temptation to kids. They may try to get the toys out of the pool and accidentally fall in, so it's best to gather them up when pool time is over.
6. Don't rely on floaties
Puddle jumpers provide kids with a false sense of security in the water. Their body is also learning to be positioned vertically while swimming, which is actually the drowning position. Properly fitted life vests are important when boating or doing other water activities.
7. Learn CPR
CPR is a lifesaving skill. In case of an emergency, CPR could make the difference. Find CPR classes at redcross.org or floridaheartcpr.com.
For more information, tips, and ISR lesson scholarships, visit The Sylas Project or Live Like Jake.
