Drowning Prevention in Kids: Essential Tips for Parents and Caregivers

Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death among children, but with vigilance and proper precautions, many of these tragedies can be prevented. At the Pediatric Center, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Here are some essential tips to help prevent drowning and keep your kids safe around water.

Key Takeaways

• Constant Supervision: Always keep an eye on your children when they are around water, and designate a responsible adult as a water watcher during gatherings.
• Swimming Skills: Enroll your children in swimming lessons early and ensure they learn basic water safety skills.
• Life Jackets: Use life jackets for children near natural bodies of water and weaker swimmers in pools.
• Barriers and Alarms: Install proper fencing and alarms around home pools to add layers of protection.
• CPR Knowledge: Learn CPR and ensure all caregivers are trained to respond to emergencies.
• Water Safety Education: Continuously educate your children about the importance of water safety and following rules.

Supervision is Key in Preventing Drowning

Always watch your children when they are near water. This includes bathtubs, swimming pools, ponds, lakes, and even buckets of water. Active supervision means keeping your eyes on your child at all times and avoiding distractions. During gatherings, designate a responsible adult to watch the children in and around water. Rotate this responsibility to ensure continuous supervision.

Educate and Equipment for Drowning Prevention

Teaching your children to swim at an early age can greatly reduce the risk of drowning. Enroll them in swimming lessons as soon as possible, ensuring the instructors are certified. Additionally, use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for children near natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, or the ocean. Life jackets are also recommended for weaker swimmers in pools.

Creating Safe Swimming Environments

For home pools, installing a fence at least four feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates is essential. Pool covers and alarms can add an extra layer of protection. Make sure your pool is regularly maintained and has a clear view from the house. Remove any toys or floats from the pool area when not in use, as these can attract children.

Before allowing your children to dive or jump into water, always check the depth and ensure it’s safe. Teach them to enter the water feet first to avoid head and neck injuries.

Beyond Pools: Know the Risks

Be cautious with bathtubs and never leave a young child unattended. Even a few inches of water can pose a drowning risk. Use non-slip mats and keep the bathroom door closed when not in use. Other hidden hazards include buckets, toilets, and containers of water. Keep toilet lids closed and store buckets out of reach when not in use.

Emergency Preparedness

Learning CPR can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. Ensure you and other caregivers are trained and certified in CPR, as immediate response can make a critical difference. Establish and practice a family emergency plan for water-related incidents. Ensure everyone knows what to do and who to call for help.

Staying Informed and Vigilant

Talk to your children about water safety and the importance of following rules around water. Make sure they understand the dangers and know what to do in case of an emergency. Stay informed about water safety guidelines and updates from trusted organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: At what age should I start swimming lessons for my child?
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children can start swimming lessons as early as age one. However, the readiness of each child varies, so it’s important to consider their development and comfort level with water.

Q: How can I make my home pool safer?
Install a four-foot fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate around your pool. Consider adding pool alarms and safety covers, and remove toys from the pool area when not in use to prevent children from being tempted to enter the water unsupervised.

Q: Are floaties or inflatable armbands safe for my child?
Floaties and inflatable armbands are not substitutes for life jackets and can provide a false sense of security. It’s best to use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, especially for younger or weaker swimmers.

Q: What should I do if I see a child struggling in the water?
Act immediately. If you are trained in water rescue, help the child out of the water. If not, call for help and try to reach the child with a long object, such as a pool noodle or a pole, without putting yourself at risk.

Q: How can I teach my child about water safety?
Talk to your child about the importance of following water safety rules. Use age-appropriate language and reinforce lessons through practice and positive reinforcement. Swimming lessons often include water safety education as part of the curriculum.

Q: Is it safe to leave my child in the care of a babysitter or relative around water?
Ensure that anyone caring for your child is aware of water safety practices and understands the importance of constant supervision. Provide clear instructions and emergency contact information.

By following these tips and maintaining a proactive approach to water safety, you can significantly reduce the risk of drowning and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for your children. At the Pediatric Center, we are committed to supporting you in keeping your family safe. For more information and resources on water safety, feel free to reach out to our team.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further guidance on drowning prevention, please don’t hesitate to contact the Pediatric Center. We’re here to help you keep your children safe and healthy. The Pediatric Center has extended hours on nights and weekends as well as in-house labs and x-rays, so you can get the help your child needs, when they need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. 

As summer approaches, it’s time for families to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities. While summer is a season of fun and adventure, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure that children have a healthy and injury-free season. At the Pediatric Center, we care deeply about the well-being of your children. Here are some crucial summer safety tips to keep in mind.

1. Sun Protection

The summer sun can be harsh, and protecting your child’s skin is paramount.

• Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on your child’s skin 15-30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. For infants under six months, it’s best to avoid direct sun exposure. If unavoidable, apply a small amount of sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to small areas like the face and back of the hands.
• Choose Child-Friendly Sunscreen: Look for sunscreens specially formulated for children. These are often free from harmful chemicals and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are excellent choices as they sit on top of the skin and provide a physical barrier against UV rays.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats to shield their skin from harmful UV rays. Rash guards are great for additional protection during water activities.
• Seek Shade: Encourage your children to play in shaded areas, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. Use umbrellas, tents, or canopies to create shade when at the beach or park.
• Educate Older Children: Teach older children about the importance of sun protection and how to apply sunscreen themselves. Make it a routine part of their outdoor activities.

2. Hydration

Keeping your child hydrated is crucial, especially during hot summer days.

• Encourage Regular Water Intake: Make sure your child drinks water regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can happen quickly in the heat.
• Avoid Sugary Drinks: Limit the intake of sugary drinks and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Eat Hydrating Foods: Include water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges in their diet.

3. Water Safety

Whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean, water safety is vital.

• Supervise at All Times: Always keep a close eye on children when they are near or in the water. Drowning can occur in just a few minutes and in shallow water.
• Learn to Swim: Enroll your child in swimming lessons. Knowing how to swim can be a lifesaving skill.
• Use Life Jackets: Ensure children wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or participating in water sports.
• Teach Water Rules: Educate your children about the dangers of water, including the importance of not running near pools and not diving in shallow areas.

4. Insect Protection

Summer is prime time for insects, including mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases.

• Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to your child’s exposed skin and clothing. Avoid applying repellent to infants younger than two months.
• Avoid Peak Insect Hours: Try to avoid outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Check for Ticks: After playing outside, especially in wooded or grassy areas, check your child for ticks. Remove any ticks promptly and carefully.

5. Playground Safety

Playgrounds are a great place for children to burn off energy, but safety is key.

• Inspect Playground Equipment: Ensure the equipment is in good condition and that the surfaces are safe and soft, like wood chips or rubber mats.
• Dress Appropriately: Remove drawstrings and other cords from clothing that can get caught on equipment.
• Follow Playground Rules: Teach children to use equipment properly and to wait their turn to avoid accidents.

6. Heat-Related Illness Prevention

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious risks during the summer months.

• Know the Signs: Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, and fainting. Heatstroke symptoms include a high body temperature, hot, dry skin, rapid pulse, and possible unconsciousness.
• Take Breaks: Ensure your child takes regular breaks in the shade or indoors to cool down.
• Dress Appropriately: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing helps keep the body cool.

7. Travel Safety

Summer often means road trips and vacations.

• Use Car Seats: Ensure that your child is in the appropriate car seat or booster seat for their age, weight, and height.
• Never Leave Children in Cars: Never leave your child unattended in a car, even for a short period. Cars can heat up rapidly, leading to heatstroke.
• Plan Ahead: Keep snacks, water, and entertainment on hand to make travel more enjoyable and safer.

At the Pediatric Center, we believe that a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer for your children. Follow these tips to keep your kids healthy and happy all season long. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to contact the Pediatric Center. We are here for you and your family when you need us with extended hours on nights and weekends as well as in-house labs and x-rays to help your family get healthy and stay healthy. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. Have a safe and happy summer!