We always think of drowning prevention in terms of outdoor swimming pools.
A child, however, can drown in only a few inches of water, even a pet’s watering dish, and it only takes a few seconds.
Water safety is important both inside and outside the home. Here are some helpful reminders.
- Never leave a child alone in or near water for even a few seconds. Outside dangers include pools (swimming and wading), hot tubs, ornamental fish ponds, fountains, watering cans, bird baths, etc. Indoor dangers include bath tubs, toilets, mop buckets, etc. Stay alert, and stay with your child.
- Do not assume that because a number of adults are outdoors with children, the children are being properly supervised. Designate a person to be in charge of watching the children, and take turns.
- All pools should be completely enclosed in a fence with a gate that automatically closes and latches. The fence should be at least 4 feet high. Do not leave objects near the fence that would allow your children to climb over the fence.
- Consider using a pool alarm, but do not rely on this as your only safety measure.
- Make sure you have proper rescue equipment on hand, including a lifesaver.
- Consider replacing your pool filter cover and intake cover with newer, safer models.
- Hot tubs should have secure, locking covers. Pool covers should be designed to support weight so that if someone falls onto the cover accidentally it does not trap them under water.
- Take a CPR class so that you will know what to do for both adults and children.
- Children who are 4 and older can be enrolled in swimming classes. Younger children may be able to take a water survival class. Neither swimming classes nor water survival classes, however, are a substitute for proper, attentive, adult supervision.
- Whenever you are outdoors with children, keep a phone with you so that you can call emergency services if needed without having to leave the child or children.
