Pool Safety for Kids | Pineville Pediatrics | Ballantyne Pediatrician

Pool Safety for Kids

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Childhood Injuries According to statistics, childhood injuries increase dramatically during summer, and drowning is the most common cause of these accidents. For example, 70% of the drowned are under six years of age; and 3 out of 4 deaths occur in private swimming pools.

Medical Costs On the other hand, according to an article of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, medical costs for submersion victims in initial hospitalization range from an estimated $2,000 for a victim who makes a full recovery to $80,000 for a victim with severe brain damage.

Besides, it is important to note that some of the patients with severe brain damage have initial hospital stays of more than 120 days and expenses of over $150,000.

The Role of Parents to Prevent Pool Accidents In the first instance, parents must be aware of the strategies that can help to prevent injuries to their children.

The most common risks for kids and toddlers occur while they are engaging in typical activities.

Supervision is crucial. There is no substitute for adult supervision, so strict surveillance and permanent control are essential to prevent injuries and fatalities. For example, if several adults are at the pool, it is advisable to appoint a person to keep an eye on the kids or taking turns to supervise them.

Avoid Distractions On the other hand, adults always should look at the pool every 10 seconds and be able to reach the child with their arm. Also, it is necessary to avoid any distractions, which are very common with the use of mobile phones and social media.

Detecting Risks First, try to detect all risks. Previously, adults must check the surroundings of the pool to make sure that children cannot reach the water by themselves if they are unattended. Also, you can install safety devices depending on the risks detected. In this way, you can prevent the child from reaching the pool from inside and outside the house.

Children should learn to float first and swim later. However, do not forget possible accidents such as falls and blows or poor digestion that can affect the kid. Having rescue equipment, life jackets, poles, and telephones is essential.

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