The sun is shining, and the days are getting hotter here in the Pacific Northwest. Cooling off by the local pool or in a nearby lake or river can be lots of fun! Parents should remember that water activities also come with risk.
Drowning is a leading cause of death among children. Young children can drown in only an inch of water with most drownings occurring in bathtubs and buckets. Toddlers between one and four years most commonly drown in swimming pools.
Here are some water safety tips to follow whenever your child is near water:
- Never leave children unattended, even for an instant!
- Teach your children to never go near water without an adult present. Instill the importance of swimming with an adult or partner.
- When supervising water activities, be sure to limit the number of distractions such as phones. When children are in the water they need your undivided attention.
- Be aware of “bodies of water” you might not think about, such as fishponds, fountains or even watering cans. Empty all tubs, buckets and wading pools after each use and store upside down.
- When boating, it is important for children to wear a life jacket at all times. The life jacket should fit snugly and should not hit the ears or chin when raising their arms in the air.
- Swimming toys such as arm floaties or noodles are for recreational use and should not be treated as flotation devices.
While drowning is our number one concern, it’s important to remember that other injuries can occur around the pool if children are not careful. Remind little ones to walk, not run, on slippery pool surfaces. Never allow them to dive in shallow water.
Under Oregon Law, children 12 or younger are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while a boat is underway. It is recommend that children wear life jackets on the dock as well.
Here are more resources on water safety:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/Drowning.aspx
This blog is not a substitute for medical advice. Be sure to talk to your child’s medical provider with any questions.