We shared this story last summer, but as many pools are opening this weekend, we wanted to remind parents and guardians of simple ways to keep kids safe this summer.
You installed a fence and a gate. But, that’s only the first step in keeping tiny ones safe near a backyard pool.
Who really trusts a two-year-old?
Tragedy strikes in an instant
Water attracts curious little ones and when Mom or Dad’s attention is captured ““ even for a split second ““ by friends, what’s sizzling on the grill, or fishing in the cooler for a cold drink, toddlers toddle quickly.
Drowning ranks fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury death in the United States, reported the Centers for Disease Control. For every child who dies, another five are treated for injuries caused by going under water.
With the sun shining, the beautiful blue pool and shimmering water beckon.
Maybe it’s a colorful beach ball floating on water or the laughter of other children, but every pool owner has seen a little one make a beeline for the deep end.
The startling statistics
The CDC reports:
- Drowning is responsible for more deaths among children one to four years old than any other cause except birth defects.
- More than 30 percent of children between the ages of one to four who died from an unintentional injury in 2009, died from drowning.
- Most of those drownings occur in home swimming pools.
How to protect your toddlers
Before heading out to a crowded holiday pool party, take simple precautions:
- Make a colorful lifejacket part of your child’s outfit
Only U.S. Coast Guard-approved jackets are recommended.
- Be certain one parent is inside the pool fence with the child
No one watches their own child as closely as Mom or Dad. It’s a task too important to leave to friends, especially in a crowd.
- Bring the child when you have to leave the pool
When the designated parent goes to answer the phone or nature’s call, the child goes along.
- Entrust your child’s safety with care
If you need a moment alone, put your child safely in the arms of an adult who has eyes for only your little one. Remind the adult that your child is fearless and adventurous. Tell them twice.
- Keep your eye on the gate
With everyone going in and out, it’s sure to be open just enough for little hands to pull it back and head in.
Be vigilant and remember, sunblock and common sense make for a lovely party.
