Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Children under age 1 are more likely to drown at home.
However, drowning can happen to anyone who is around water. It is silent and happens quickly.
The CDC estimates that 4,000 people die from drowning in the United States each year.
Learn how to prevent drownings and save lives. Follow these tips to keep yourself and your children safe around all sources of water.
Prevent Drownings at Home
Assign a Water Watcher
When kids are in the pool or playing with water, assign an adult Water Watcher. This person agrees to watch kids without distractions while they wear the Water Watcher card (download here). Young children can drown in as little as 1 inch of water, so it is important to keep them within arm’s reach of an adult.
The Water Watcher card helps others know that the adult is doing an important job and should not be disturbed. After a certain period, the card is passed to another adult to continue the supervision.
Store Tubs and Kiddie Pools
Keep tubs, kiddie pools, buckets and other sources of water empty when not in use. Store these items upside down and out of children’s reach.
Close Lids and Doors
Close toilet lids and bathroom and laundry room doors to keep little ones from falling into shallow water.
Secure Pools
Install fences around home pools. The pool fence should surround all sides of the pool and be at least 4 feet tall with self-closing and self-latching gates.
Swim Safety Tips
Follow these swim safety tips to keep yourself and your family safe around water:
- Learn to swim. Everyone should learn basic swimming and water safety skills. Formal swim lessons are recommended at all ages.
- Use the right life jacket. Life jackets can reduce the risk of drowning, especially when boating or swimming in natural bodies of water. People of all ages and swimming abilities should consider using a jacket approved by the S. Coast Guard.
- Use the buddy system. Always swim with another person. Never leave children unattended around water without an adult.
- Don’t drink and swim. Avoid alcohol or other substances that can impair your judgment, balance and reaction time.
- Know the risk of natural waters. Lakes and oceans can have dangerous currents, waves or rocks with limited visibility. Check weather forecasts before swimming in natural water and obey all warning signs posted at beaches.
- Learn CPR. Knowing how to perform CPR can save a person’s life. Find CPR classes near you.