Warmer weather can only mean one thing… it’s time for fun in the sun! Whether you’re planning to make a splash at your local pool, take a family trip to the beach or enjoy a lake day, it is important to make sure safety is a top priority. Drowning is the leading cause of death in children under the age of four in Arizona. An easy way to remember how to prevent drownings is remembering the ABCD’s of water safety.
A- Adult Supervision
Adult supervision is crucial when it comes to protecting our children around water. The supervising adult should not have any distractions such as electronic devices and books.
B- Barriers
Barriers should be put in multiple areas of the home which creates layers of protection. Examples include pool fences, locks on doors that children cannot reach, alarms on windows and doors that sound when they are opened, pool cover or net and locking pet doors
C- Classes
Swimming lessons are another way to protect children around water. They teach children how to swim and can help prevent drownings by allowing the child to swim out of the pool or to keep afloat until an adult reaches them. For youth and adults, learning CPR is a crucial lifesaving technique. Check your local fire department or YMCA for CPR certification classes.
D- Drains
Drains can become a danger while swimming because they can entrap or entangle the child due to the strong suction. Drains should have covers that are domed shape, have small openings, a larger surface area and are installed correctly. Never allow a child to sit on or next to a drain and teach them to not swim or play near the drain.
No single device or solution can prevent child drownings on their own, however, taking these steps above and creating multiple barriers between children and water can minimize the risk. To learn more about water safety, enroll in our free online Water Safety course by clicking here. To view the Water Safety course in Spanish, click here.
Applications are open for the 2023 Pool Fence Safety Program, a partnership between Child Crisis Arizona, SRP and United Phoenix Firefighters Charities. Maricopa County families in need of a pool fence are encouraged to apply for a no-cost pool fence, click here for more information.
