A day at the pool is a great way to spend time with your kids and cool off from the hot Texas weather.
Just remember, children can drown in a foot of water. The CDC states that drowning is the leading cause of accidental deaths among children ages one to four and the second leading cause of death for children under the age of fourteen. Never turn your back while they are in the water. If you have a toddler, keep a hand on them at all times while in the pool or be within arm's length. Do not rely on floatation devices (floaties, tubes, rafts) to keep your child safe.
If you have a swimming pool at home:
- It should be surrounded by a fence at least four foot high.
- Your child should not be able to enter the pool area from the house.
- The gate should be self closing and self latching.
- Consider installing high latches or locks on doors that lead out to the pool area.
- Learn CPR for children.
- Keep a phone by the pool.
- Have an emergency plan.
- Teach children not to dive in the shallow end of the pool.
- Caution children not to over breathe as a way to stay underwater longer. They could pass out.
- Teach older children to never swim alone. Always swim with a friend.
If you are considering swimming lessons, enroll by age 8. Children are usually ready by age 4. Infant water programs should teach water fun not swimming. Infant programs that submerge your baby's head for more than a few seconds should be avoided. Babies can swallow enough water to cause seizures and brain damage. As parents, we want to keep our children safe at all times. Don't assume that because your child took swimming lessons that they are safe.
For more information from the AAP: http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Water-Safety-And-Young-Children.aspx
Article from Children's Medical Center: http://www.childrens.com/PatientsFamilies/News/dad-comes-home-to-child-being-revived.cfm
Enjoy your summer and have fun!