In the hot summer months, the pool is usually a favorite way to cool off. Unfortunately it can also be a dangerous place for young swimmers.
According to Modern Mom, drowning is the second most common cause of accidental death in children, age 15 and younger. In fact, the article estimates more than 370 children will drown next year within 25 yards of a parent or other adult. This terrible statistic doesn’t come from neglectful parenting, drowning can catch Moms and Dads by surprise.
The instinctive drowning response is characterized by silence, not thrashing and yelling portrayed in the movies. Signs of drowning often include a mouth at water level, closed eyes, gasping for air and efforts to roll over on their back.
How can you be sure your kids are safe?
Don’t assume your kids are okay if you don’t hear anything from the pool. Children playing in the water should always be making noise. One way to be sure they are secure in the pool is to ask them, “Are you alright?” if they can answer they are probably fine.
A good rule of thumb – keep one parent focused on watching your little one play and don’t leave the pool area unless the child comes along.
