Drowning prevention tips that an ER doctor wants every parent to know

Many children are drawn to water, especially when the weather is hot. But while pool days, beach trips, and sprinklers can be some of the best parts of summer, they also come with real risks.

Drowning remains one of the leading causes of death among young children in the United States, and experts say it is on the rise. That’s why water safety isn’t just something to think about on vacation or at the pool — it’s a conversation worth having all season long.

But drowning can be prevented, explains Darria Long, MD, ER physician, mother, and BabyCenter Medical Advisor.

“As a parent, it is important that you learn how to swim and make sure that your child also learns about water safety.”

Dr. Darria has three children of her own, so here’s what she’s been doing this summer — and what she recommends you do too — to keep your little friends safe.

1. Always store toys in the pool when not in it

You know that toy – the one that every kid loves, but it just keeps going in the middle of the pool, taunting little kids when they’re not even swimming. Toys left in the pool can be very dangerous for children, and Dr. Darria saw herself in the ER.

“I remember one family that went into the ER: Everyone got out of the pool and went inside, but the toys were left in the pool and the toddler went out by himself to get the toy … and fell,” she recalls.

It is important to monitor the pool and keep all pool toys away from the outside of the pool when an adult is not present, says Dr. Darria. This will prevent curious children from leaning over to pick up their favorite toy and falling into it.

Whenever you’re done with pool time, get into the habit of putting away and putting away those fun toys.

2. Make sure your child has a good-looking bathing suit

The best colored swimsuits are the ones that can be seen from a distance, says Dr. Darria, especially red and orange. Some colors, such as green and blue, can easily blend in with the color of the pool, making it difficult to see your child swimming (both above and below the water).

To find out how easily your child’s swimsuit can be seen underwater, check out this photoIt will open a new window from Alive Solutions that displays different colors against different types of water.

When in doubt, stick to bright, neon colors and stay away from blue.

3. Be extra careful when checking on your child, even when you’re out of the pool

Dr. Darria. In fact, a study found that 69% of children under the age of 5 were not expected to be in the water at the time of drowning, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).It will open a new window.

This means that if you have a pool – or are near a pool – you need to keep an eye on your child at all times.

“When you get out of the pool, keep checking the pool or get out of the area – get outside the pool fence so your kids don’t get back in,” Dr. Darria advises. You may be surprised at how quickly your child runs to the pool!

4. Have a senior volunteer at all times

Whether your child is 2 or 9 years old, it is important that you always supervise the pools, says Dr. Darria. When it comes to drowning, children between the ages of 1 and 4 are at the highest risk – and most incidents occur in home pools.

Talk to other seniors around you, and come up with a plan so that everyone knows whose turn it is. Maybe you shout “I have a pool” to let everyone know it’s your turn to take care of those in the pool.

If you are alone on the job, make sure you are in or near the pool, ready to jump in at any time.

“Personally, when my kid is in the pool, I’m always at arm’s length—and even my older kids who are good swimmers, I’m always watching,” says Dr. Darria.

5. Invest in swimming lessons

One of the best things you can do to prevent water accidents is to enroll your child (and yourself) in swimming lessons, says Dr. Darria.

She introduced her babies at 9 to 12 months of age, and the AAP saysIt will open a new window The age at which you start depends on a number of factors, including:

• Mature age
• Whether your child seems ready
• They usually live near water

The AAP says that for children 1 or older, education is most important. Also talk to your child’s pediatrician, as they can help you decide the right time to start swimming based on your child’s needs.

And if you haven’t taken a swimming course yourself, it’s a good idea to sign up for one too.

To find a reliable program in your area, you can also check your local YMCAIt will open a new window location is the United States Swim SchoolIt will open a new window and USA SwimmingIt will open a new window leaves.

You’ll want to make sure the instructors are knowledgeable and certified through internationally recognized swim lessons, says the AAP, and you’ll want to check if the program teaches swimming techniques. and water survival skills. And the same goes when you want classes for yourself.

6. Learn CPR

If your child has fallen and needs help, taking immediate action can save their life. Here’s how to perform CPR on babies and toddlers if they are unconscious or not breathing.

“I encourage everyone to learn CPR, but I hope you don’t need it,” says Dr. Darria.

To find a class in your area, visit the Red Cross websiteIt will open a new window or call (800) RED-CROSS or (800) 733-2767. BabyCenter also offers mandatory Infant CPR, Choking, and First Aid trainingIt will open a new window.