The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports
that about 10 people drown every day. Two are these are children aged 14 and
under. Drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury death in the
country. US Media Studios highlights some important drowning prevention tips
for people of all ages.
Risk Prevention
- People of all ages and
genders are at risk of drowning in pools, lakes, oceans and other bodies
of water. Risks can range from toddlers falling into the deeper sides of a
public or private swimming pool.
- People who don’t know how
to swim can drown in any body of water.
- Lack of adequate fencing
and secure gates around private home pools can contribute to drowning
injuries and deaths.
- Lack of not using life
preservers, otherwise called personal flotation devices can contribute to
drowning in and around natural bodies of water such as lakes and oceans.
- Not knowing how to swim
out of a rip current can cause drowning.
- Alcohol use on boats and
other vessels can cause accidents and accidental drownings.
Drowning Prevention Tips
- Keep small children at arm’s
length when around water, even a small, portable “baby pool”.
- If going to the beach or
boating on a lake or river, be sure there are enough life preservers for
everyone onboard. Keep them in an accessible location.
- Pay attention to local
water and weather events. Almost every weather-related app will send an
alert for small craft advisories, rip current risks, and safety measures
to take.
- Do not take any alcohol on
any boat. Alcohol consumption leads to poor decision making which can lead
to boating accidents, such as going too fast and stopping too fast.
- Be sure the boat has a
working radio on it.
- Sign up family members for
swimming classes. Ask friends and neighbors to join. Many public pools and YMCA clubs offer
these classes for free.
US Media Studios encourages everyone to practice safe water
guidelines this summer. Swimming, boating, snorkeling, wading, paddle boarding –
all of these are great fun and refreshing activities. Don’t let them become
tragic. Prevention is the key to a long life.
