DROWNING PREVENTION
TIPS FROM COOK CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL HTTP://BIT.LY/LIFEGUARDYOURCHILD
Install four-sided fences with self-latching gates Four-sided isolation fencing around home pools could prevent 50 percent to 90 percent of childhood drownings and near-drowning incidents. The fence should be at least 4 feet (preferably 5 feet) high with a self-closing/self-latching gate that only opens out. Reroute any doggie doors that have direct access to the pool area too. Pool and spa covers should be sturdy enough to support the weight of a child or multiple children. Latches should be properly locked whenever you are not using the area.
Wear life vests with U.S. Coast Guard approved labels
As your child grows, the lifejacket needs to meet their new weight. Get a new lifejacket if there are rips and tears or fraying of the straps. Look for the words "U.S. Coast Guard Approved" or "USCG Approved on the jacket." Any items filled with air (arm floaties, rafts, etc.) are considered toys and not a life saving device.
Take Family CPR Lessons
Learning CPR can be the difference between life and death while waiting for emergency personnel to arrive. Check your local Red Cross, the BRiCk, or Fire Department for classes.
Create and follow all pool rules
Read all informational signs presented at the pool. Listen to lifeguards while attending public pools. Assign a non-distracted adult watcher to focus on children in the pool.
Use pool/door/child alarms
Door and window alarms can give you the valuable seconds needed to keep your children from getting outside to the pool. Make sure to alarm any windows and doors that open directly into the pool area. Pool surface alarms are also a great option to alert you if anyone/anything falls into the pool. You can even put an alarm on your child that will alert you if they are submersed.
Insist on adult non distracted water watchers Children drown silently, so designate a Water Watcher to watch children in and around all water. A Water Watcher Tag is used to designate responsible adults to watch the water when you have a party at the pool, lake or beach. At social gatherings, 10-15 minute shifts are recommended for Water Watchers. During that time, Water Watchers should not be distracted by conversations, cell phones, reading, etc. Always check the pool first for missing kids ... seconds count! Send an email to asmith@burlesontx.com to request your Water Watcher tags.
Schedule water safety and swim lessons Drownings and near drownings are 8 times more likely to happen to children that don't know how to swim or are being supervised by adults that don't know how to swim. Learning how to swim and practicing proper water safety techniques are crucial but children that know how to swim are still at risk. Need help finding swim lessons? The BRiCk offers swim lessons through Sigma Swimming as well as drowning prevention lessons!
THE FINAL TIP IS:
Update pool drains and cleaning systems