Water safety for summer

As summer heats up and families head to pools and beaches this summer, health care professionals are reminding parents and caregivers to always keep an eye on kids and actively supervise them when they are in and around water.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages one to four and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for those ages 5-14.

CDC studies show while most parents say they supervise their children while swimming, many acknowledge they engage in other distracting activities at the same time, such as scrolling on their phone, talking, eating, reading or taking care of another child.

Tips to prevent drowning among kids:

• Keep your pool area fenced
• Know your child’s limitations including strength and medical conditions
• Never allow your child to swim alone
• Make sure a lifeguard or an adult is always designated at pool parties or at water activities
• Get CPR training
• Make sure children keep their floatation devices on when outdoors

If you suspect someone is drowning, call 911 immediately. For more drowning prevention tips and resources, visit: www.cdc.gov/drowning/.