As the weather heats up and we look for ways to cool down, it’s time to make sure we stay afloat on summer water safety—whether you have young children or you’ll be anywhere where kids and water are nearby.

Drowning is the leading cause of death for San Diego County children ages 1 to 4. While most drownings happen in home swimming pools and spas, children can also drown in anywhere where water is present, such as toilets, bathtubs and buckets.

Where do the majority of children drown?

The most common location is in a home swimming pool or spa. However, some children drown in much smaller amounts of water such as bathtubs and buckets.

How long does is take for a child to drown?

A child can drown in only a couple of minutes. It is important to always stay with your child around any type of water (pool, spa, ocean, lake). A child should never be left ALONE near any type of water – EVEN FOR “JUST A MINUTE.” 

What about at a pool party?  Aren’t there a lot of “eyes” on the children?

When groups of adults and children are together near water (such as at a pool party) there should always be a DESIGNATED ADULT to keep watch. This person should abstain from alcohol and should not be distracted for any reason – EVEN FOR “JUST A MINUTE.”  It is important for this person to WATCH THE WATER – not the children.

• Learn CPR for infants, children and adults. You could save someone’s life! 
• Swimmimg lessons – children are usually developmentally ready for swimming lessons around age 4 yrs. SWIMMING LESSONS ARE NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR ADULT SUPERVISON.
• If a homeowner has a pool, it is important to have a fence (see below).
• Teach your children to always swim with a buddy. NEVER SWIM ALONE – even if you know how to swim!

How can a pool or spa owner prevent drowning?

• Every pool should have a 5 foot fence that completely encloses the pool (or spa).
• All fence gates and doors leading to the pool need to be SELF- CLOSING and SELF – LATCHING. (latches need to be above a child’s reach)
• Consider automatic safety covers and door alarms.
• DO NOT use floating pool covers – children can get underneath and be trapped.
• Never leave toys in the pool area.

Other important summertime topics include sun safety, bicycle / skateboard / scooter safety, and safety with motorized vehicles such as ATV’s.

Resources

• American Red Cross - CPR/First Aid Training
• Rady Children's Hospital - Safety Information

© Children's Specialists of San Diego | Medical News Archive