What is drowning?
Each year many small children are seriously injured and some die from accidental drownings that could have been prevented.
Children can drown in just a few inches of water so careful attention must be paid to keeping your child safe.
How can I prevent drownings?
Pools and spas:
Pools should be enclosed in a fence at least four feet high, with a self-closing latched gates. The gates should also be equipped with exit alarms.Pools and spas should also have a power safety cover.Check barriers on a regular basis.Keep toys away from the water.Do not rely on inflatable devices to keep your child afloat.Never take your eyes off of your child when he is near a body of water. Remember, a large group watching a child is no one watching a child. If you must leave, give the responsibility to someone else, even if you are gone for only a minute.Safety covers may not support the weight of a large child or teenager.Always drain the water from a safety cover because children can drown in just a few inches of water.
Swimming:
Children should always swim with a buddy.Teach your kids not to dive into unknown bodies of water. They should jump feet-first to avoid hitting their heads on the shallow bottom.Children should not jump on or push others in the water.Always be prepared for an emergency.
Bathroom safety:
Bathtub and toilet drownings occur. Do not leave your child alone in the bath, even if it is just being filled.Keep the toilet seat down to prevent drowning. Consider installing a latch to keep the seat down.Use slip resistant mats in the bathtub to avoid slipping. Discourage your child from standing in the bathtub. One way to do this is to have floating toys, which are much easier to play with while seated.
Warning Signs- Call our office for advice if:
Your child has had a near-drowning experience, call 911, your emergency medical system number, or our office now.
You have any questions or concerns, or if you have any doubts about the severity of your child's symptoms, call our office now.
