Swimming is a great way to cool off and get exercise. For many of us, our vacations involve a beach, lake, or a pool. Some of us have a pool in our own backyard. While you are enjoying the water we want you to remember to be safe.
According to the National Safety Council, drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4 years old and continues to be the second leading cause of death until 15 years of age. Kidshealth.org reports that 5 to 10% of those who survive a drowning experience severe brain injury.
Here are some water safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe:
- Never leave a child alone in or near any type of water for any amount of time.
- Avoid distractions when you are supervising a child.
- Do not count on another child to watch your child.
- Drowning can occur in a bathtub, toilet or even a bucket of water.
- Teach children about water safety.
- Teach children to ask permission to swim.
- Teach children to swim to the wall of the pool if they get tired.
- Do not allow a child to play near drains or suction fittings.
- Do not go in the water unless you know how to swim.
- Learn to swim at any age. Sign up for local swim classes at the Department of Parks and Recreation or your local YMCA.
- Never swim alone.
- Always swim with a buddy — even if you are a skilled swimmer.
- If you have a home pool, take extra precautions.
- Surround the pool with 4-sided fencing that is at least 4 feet high. Fence gates should be self-closing and self-latching.
- Make sure home door locks are working and childproof.
- Have anti-entrapment drain covers and safety release systems installed.
- If a child is missing, check the water immediately.
- Swimming in open water (oceans, rivers, lakes & ponds) is more hazardous than a pool.
- Presence of undertows, currents and waves.
- Limited visibility.
- Underwater hazards like rocks, vegetation and debris.
- Colder water temperatures.
- Young or inexperienced swimmers and anyone on a watercraft should wear life jackets.
- Choose a life jacket that fits well, is age-appropriate, & US Coast Guard approved and wear it correctly.
- Cold weather water safety
- Do not walk, skate or sled on weak or thawing ice.
- Do not use drugs or alcohol while swimming or boating.
- Alcohol and drugs affect your judgement, coordination and balance, and vision. Read more about why alcohol and drugs should not be used around water.
The law firm of Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. has represented families whose children have drowned or sustained a near-drowning. This is a terrible tragedy that requires lawyers experienced in this area and these injuries. Accordingly, if a member of your family has drowned or suffered a near-drowning, call the experienced trial lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C.