After birth defects, drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages 1-4. Parents can take many actions to safe guard their young swimmers from accidental drownings.
Quick Tips for a Safe Swimming Season
1) If you own a pool, installing a four-foot tall fence with a self-latching gate on all sides can prevent children from entering the pool without supervision. If your pool is above-ground, remove the ladder and ensure your fence is not climbable. Children between 3-5 can climb a four-foot wall if a fence is not installed.
2) One study found that 50% of drownings occur between 4pm-6pm which is prime dinner cooking time. Keep your attention alert using the SOBA band system when cooking dinner if a pool is nearby.
3) Swim lessons are an essential layer of protection against drowning. We put our son in swim lessons at six months though he didn’t learn how to swim until he was four. The swim lessons helped us build confidence around the water.
4) Inflatable pools should be emptied after every use. Even shallow water poses a risk to young children.
5) Designate the water watcher using the SOBA band system. The caretaker wearing the SOBA band should be undistracted, not on their phone, and keeping alert even if a lifeguard is present. SLAPS.ON.BE.ALERT!
