Water safety: Things to keep in mind

Water safety is an important topic, especially when it comes to children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of injury death for children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause of injury death for children ages 5-9. Therefore, it is important to take steps to ensure that your child is safe around water.

First and foremost, it is important to never leave a child unattended near water. This includes bathtubs, pools, and even buckets of water. Children can drown in as little as an inch of water, so it is important to always keep a close eye on them.

In addition to supervision, it is also important to teach your child how to swim. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children as young as 1 year old can benefit from swim lessons. However, it is important to note that swim lessons do not make a child "drown-proof," and supervision is still necessary.

Another important aspect of water safety is making sure that your child is wearing the appropriate flotation devices. Life jackets are particularly important when boating or participating in other water activities. It is important to make sure that the life jacket fits properly and is appropriate for your child's weight and size.

Finally, it is important to teach your child about water safety. This includes teaching them about the dangers of water, the importance of supervision, and how to call for help in an emergency.

In conclusion, water safety is an important topic, particularly when it comes to children. By taking steps such as supervision, swim lessons, proper flotation devices, and education, you can help keep your child safe around water.

Source:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Unintentional Drowning: Get the Facts. https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/water-safety/waterinjuries-factsheet.html