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CITYSunTimes Web Exclusives May 2010 | Read the full SECTION
HEALTH & WELLNESS
May Is Water Safety Month
Water safety tips for fun-filled summer months
The summer months are upon us and the cool waters of swimming pools are a glittering enticement for young and old alike. Unfortunately, the Valley has already had reports of tragic drowning deaths this year – drowning accidents that may have been preventable.
More than 300 children under the age of five die each year in pool and spa-related drowning accidents, and drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children under five.
A new report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) indicates that the average number of drowning deaths involving children younger than five in pools and spas has increased from a yearly average of 283 (for 2003-2005) to 295 (for 2004-2006). Moreover, the report’s number for emergency room visits due to pool and spa submersion injuries increased from an annual average of 2,700 (for 2005-2007) to 3,100 (for 2006-2008).
During May, which has been designated as Water Safety Month, the U.S. CPSC reminds residents that installing childproof barriers around pools and spas is the most effective tool for preventing disaster. But there is much more that can be done.
Constant Supervision and Layers of Protection Can Save Lives
When children are in or around pool and spas never take your eyes off them. Pool owners should install several layers of protection, such as:
- A fence completely surrounding the pool
- A self-closing, self-latching gate to prevent children from accessing the pool
- A door alarm if the house forms the fourth side of the barrier leading to the pool area
- A power safety cover over the pool
Also, consider the following:
- Since every second counts, always look for a missing child in the pool first. Precious time is often wasted looking for missing children anywhere but in the pool.
- Don’t leave toys and floats in the pool that can attract young children and cause them to fall in the water when they reach for the items.
- For above-ground and inflatable pools with ladders, remove or secure the ladder when the pool is not in use.
- It is important to always be prepared for an emergency by having rescue equipment and a phone near the pool. Parents should learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
HEALTH & WELLNESS Web Exclusive | CITYSunTimes May 2010