Protecting Your Children from an Accidental Drowning this Summer

pool

Summertime means longer days and warmer weather. It also means lots of time spent in and around the swimming pool. But while swimming can be a really fun activity, it can also end in tragedy. Accidental drownings are far too common even though they are preventable. In fact, many children die of accidental drowning each year. However, your kids don’t need to give up all of the fun to be safe. Here are ways in which you can protect your kids from accidental drownings this summer.

Make sure your kids learn to swim at an early age. 

One of the biggest things that you can do to help keep your children safe around the pool – or any body of water – is to ensure they know water safety and how to swim. There are now many places that offer classes for extremely young children – even from a year old. 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, drowning deaths are highest among children ages one to two. In fact, drowning is the leading cause of death in the pediatric age group. Enrolling your child in one of these programs will allow them to become comfortable around the water and learn basic skills that can help them to survive should they fall into a pool. 

Be sure that the perimeter of the pool has a fence.

Though most towns have laws requiring you to build some type of barrier around your pool, you should be sure to do this even if you don’t have to. By placing the pool away from much of your yard and installing a fence around it with a self-closing gate, you can prevent young children from wandering into the pool area and falling in. 

Always watch your kids.

If nothing else, one of the most important things that you can do to prevent accidental drownings is to keep an eye on your kids at all times when they are around the pool. It’s important that you don’t turn your back to them or engage in distracting activities such as texting or talking on the phone. It’s especially important that you never leave your children alone. Since it only takes a few inches of water for a child to drown, even a few seconds of inattention can lead to tragedy.

Take a CPR course.

Another fantastic step to take in order to prevent your child from accidental drowning is to take a course in CPR. CPR, which stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, can help to revive your child and save their life. There are many different places that offer such courses, such as the Red Cross. 

MPJ Law Firm Can Help Those in NM Who Have Been Injured or Killed in a Pool Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a pool accident, it can greatly impact your life. It can be difficult enough to deal with substantial injuries or mourning a loved one, but it can be even harder when you are left to pick up the pieces financially. While we cannot undo what has happened, holding those responsible accountable can help you to move forward both financially and emotionally.

At MPJ Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of pool accidents and understand the effects that such accidents often have on just about all aspects of your life. We will always act in your best interest. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

Posted in: Premises Liability