Every summer, we read and hear about children who die due to accidental drowning. Sadly, this summer has been no exception in Minnesota.
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children ages 1 to 4. According to the Centers for Disease Control, most drownings among children ages 1 to 4 occur in the pool at home. Drowning remains the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death behind motor vehicle crashes among children 1 to 14.
While drowning is a tragedy, it's one that can be prevented. I've compiled a list of tips I commonly share with parents and caregivers to make sure their kids are safe in and near the water.
Children ages 1-5
A common misconception is that kids only drown in deep water. A child can actually drown in only a few inches of water.
- Always keep children within arm's reach.
- Inflatable aids are not substitutes for adult supervision.
- Enforce pool safety rules. That means no running or pushing.
Children ages 5-12
- Don't allow horseplay.
- Make sure your child never swims alone and is always within view of an adult.
- Children should receive swimming lessons from a qualified instructor.
Open water
- Never allow a child to dive in without first checking the depth.
- Choose a swimming area that is under a lifeguard's supervision.
- A child should always wear a life jacket while riding in a boat.
Backyard pool
