Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death among kids ages 1-12. A child can drown in under five minutes. That’s the time it takes to have a conversation via text. What’s more, many drownings take place with adults or lifeguards present.
Pools and beaches don’t have to be scary places. Here are some tips to help keep your kids safe so they can enjoy the water:
- Don’t let your kids swim without supervision. Assign an adult (preferably two) to watch the kids. If your kids are swimming at a neighbor’s house, make sure you know who will be in charge.
- If a child is missing, check the pool or ocean first. 92 percent of kids survive when found within two minutes.
- 70 percent of Americans don’t know CPR. Take time to learn this important skill – it can save your child’s life.
- When you’re finished swimming, put away pool toys and furniture. Kids can use these items to climb into the pool area when it’s not in use.
- While pool floaties and noodles are fun toys, they are not life-saving devices. Don’t rely on them to keep your kids safe. There is no substitute for constant adult supervision.
- A child’s risk of drowning is reduced by 90 percent when he or she knows how to swim. Don’t wait until next summer to sign your kids up for swim classes. Even though the end of summer is near, many communities have year-round classes.
For more tips, visit www.cigna.com/watersafety.
Dr. Peter W. McCauley, Sr. is the regional medical executive for Cigna's Northeast region, which includes Chicago. He is a practicing pediatrician, a diplomat of the American Board of Pediatrics and a Certified Physician Executive though the American College of Physician Executives.
