In the summer, between the months of May and August, and most commonly on the weekends, two-thirds of all drowning deaths occur. Although the summer months have passed the potential for a child to be injured or drown near bodies of water is always a possibility. Educating yourself and your child about swimming safety can reduce the possibility of injuries or death when around bodies of water.
•When in or around open bodies of water actively supervise your children by giving them your undivided attention. It only takes seconds for a child to fall in water and less than two minutes after their head goes under water to drown.
•When children are swimming and several adults are present, designate an adult to supervise the children swimming for a certain amount of time, this will prevent lapses in supervision. Hiring a lifeguard is a great alternative when having a pool party and children are present.
•If your child is learning to swim make sure they are wearing a flotation device which is Coast Guard approved.
•Gates around a pool is a must!!! Gates are to keep children out of the pool area when there is no adult or lifeguard present. Teach your children to NEVER go through any pool gates when they are closed.
•Have your child swim at a depth that is safe for them. Beginner swimmers should stay in the shallow end.
•Always obey all pool rules.
•Do not dive in shallow waters or in waters you are unable to tell the depth.
•Learn CPR. It will give you great piece of mind. Local hospitals, fire departments and the American Red cross offer CPR training.
Working together as a community we can educate ourselves and our children on the safety of Swimming. For further information on swimming safety tips go to www.kidshealth.org. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Palmdale Sheriff Station at 661-272-2400 or email Deputy Jodi Wolfe at [email protected].
Written by:
Deputy Jodi Wolfe
Palmdale Sheriff’s Station
750 East Avenue Q,
Palmdale, Ca. 93550
(661) 272-2520
[email protected]
