Every year in the U.S. hundreds of children under the age of 5 years drown in swimming pools, bathtubs, ponds, aquariums, buckets and toilets. For every drowning there are many near drowning injuries that include permanent disabling brain damage. One of the most tragic aspects of drowning deaths is that they are preventable, but there is no single fool proof method of prevention.
The best solution is to have multiple levels of protection. The first level safety measure should always be adult supervision. However, many drownings occur when parental supervision fails and there are no other safety measures being used. Parents can become distracted by chores, socializing with friends, or talking on the phone. Drowning children do not flail their arms, splash water and make noise as depicted on TV. It happens quickly, silently, and without cries for help. If a child is missing always check the pool area first. A few seconds can mean the difference between life and death.
Secondary safety measures should include a pool fence or safety barrier around the pool. The gate should be automatic closing and have a latch that is out of reach of children. Do not place patio furniture or any other item near the fence that a child could use to climb over. Door alarm sensors should be placed on any doors that access the pool area and should be kept locked.
Make sure you always remove toys and floats from the pool area when it is not in use as they may be a temptation to young children. Keep pool rescue equipment like a life preserver and shepherd's hook near the pool so they are available if needed. It's also a good idea to have a phone in the pool area. Parents should always teach children water survival techniques but should never consider them drown proof. Finally, take a CPR class and know what to do in case any of the other measures break down and you are faced with this devastating situation. Seconds count when trying to revive a drowning victim.
