by guest blogger Heather Monackey,
WakeMed Families First 

Many pools around our area opened for the season over recently.  At the start of every swim season, it is important to remind children young and old about how important it is to swim safe.

Did you know? Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1 to 4. It is listed among the top three leading causes of death in children up to 18 years old.  Follow these tips to stay safe this summer:

Above all: Never leave a child alone in the water.

• Utilize the touch rule by always being within arm’s reach when children are in the water.
• Avoid distractions. Drowning often occurs silently.
• Don’t dive in water less than 9 ft.
• Teach your child to swim after age 4.
Don’t overestimate your child’s ability to swim – knowing how to swim doesn’t prevent drowning.
• Avoid inflatable toys. Children should wear an approved life vest.
• Never let a child get in a pool or spa with a missing or broken drain cover.
• Always tie hair up securely so it doesn’t catch in the drain.
• Learn CPR. In the time it might take paramedics to arrive, CPR may save someone’s life.

WakeMed Children’s is dedicated to providing answers to common questions parents have about children’s health and wellbeing.   Learn more by subscribing to WakeMed’s Families First newsletter.  Have a specific question you would like answered?  Post a comment or email us directly.

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