As summer hits its stride and temperatures rise, there isn't much that tops a dip in the pool or a trip to the beach. But water-related accidents remain all too common.
Every day, about 10 people die from unintentional drowning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their same research also found that among those 1 to 14, drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death, second to motor vehicle crashes.
Having a plan for water safety and educating your family on the most up to date safety tips will help prevent emergencies.
Among the best practices listed by the Red Cross is sticking with the buddy-system. Swimming with a buddy, even at public pools and lifeguarded beaches, is an effective way to reduce accidents.
Young children should never be left unattended near water, or their life trusted to the care of another child.
Learning CPR can save a drowning victim's life.
Inflatable or foam pool toys are not safety devices, the CDC warns. They weren't designed to be used instead of life jackets.
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Close supervision is important. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly even in the presence of lifeguards.
The Red Cross also recommends establishing rules for kids and always sticking with them. Making sure young swimmers stay away from drains and suction fittings as well as preventing kids from having breath-holding competitions is a way to reduce serious emergencies.
Swimming lessons are also suggested if you've never had them. Aim to swim in areas supervised by lifeguards when available.
