Drowning is the leading cause of death for kids ages 1-4 years, and it’s a major cause of death for older kids, too. Fortunately, it’s also preventable — as long as you implement a few simple precautions.
At Nevada Pediatric Specialists, we don’t just provide healthcare to kids: Our team helps families stay healthy and safe all year with actionable guidance to prevent life-threatening accidents. This month, learn the ABCs of drowning prevention — simple tips you can begin using today to keep your child safe while still enjoying summer fun.
Even if your child is an experienced swimmer, they still need supervision by an adult swimmer at all times. Never leave children unattended, even for a moment. If you’re among a group of adults, one person should be assigned to watch the children at all times without distraction from phones, conversations, or alcohol use.
For very young children or inexperienced swimmers of any age, make sure the swimmer stays close to the edge of the swimming area and within easy reach — no more than an arm’s length away for very young swimmers.
Maintain adult supervision even when a lifeguard is present. Lifeguards must watch a large number of swimmers, not only your children.
Be sure your own personal swimming pool is surrounded by a fence that’s at least four feet tall with a self-closing and self-latching gate. Always lock the gate when the pool isn’t in use.
Ideally, make sure the latch isn’t within reach of small children, and keep ladders and stools away from the fence to prevent climbing. Consider installing an alarm on the gate, as well as a pool alarm that can detect when someone enters the water.
After using the pool, remove all pool toys and place them in a secure area like a shed or keep them outside the enclosed pool area to remove the temptation for kids to enter the area and retrieve them.
Always empty kiddie pools after use, and for above-ground pools, raise, remove, or securely block steps or ladders used to access the pool.
Enroll your child in swimming classes designed for their age group and developmental level, and teach basic water survival skills, like floating and treading water. Remember: While classes are important, accidents can still happen, and supervision is still necessary.
As a parent, consider taking CPR classes to stay prepared in case of an emergency. The American Red Cross website has a handy search tool on their website to help you find training near you.
Make sure all kids know your pool rules — for example, no running around or playing around the edges of pools, and no inappropriate play (like dunking) while in the pool. Encourage kids to always swim with a friend instead of swimming alone.
All young kids and inexperienced swimmers should wear life jackets approved by the US Coast Guard. Water wings, floats, and pool noodles aren’t adequate alternatives.
Tell kids to stay away from the pool drain and filter system, and install appropriate covers for your drain. Keep a first aid kit on hand near your pool for quick access just in case.
Swimming is healthy and a lot of fun. By implementing a few simple safety tips, you and your child can enjoy swimming season with greater peace of mind this year and for years to come.
To learn more ways to help your child stay healthy and safe or to schedule a back-to-school or sports physical, book an appointment online or over the phone today with the team at Nevada Pediatric Specialists in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada.
