I can't imagine what it would feel like to lose a child. Let's keep kids safe when they're in pools and lakes. Here are some good reminders about water safety...
- Barriers are essential - 70% of the kids under 5 who've been in drowning accidents weren't expected to be in or around the pool.
- Swim lessons should start super early - There's evidence that swim lessons can help lower the risk of drowning, even for kids between the age of 1 and 4.
- You have to really watch kids - Abbey’s Hope promotes the idea of a Water Watchdog—literally a dog tag the group sends out, with the idea that an adult wears it to signify she or he is the one who will maintain visual contact with all of the kids in the group, not drink or talk on the phone while they’re watching, but will keep a phone close by in case of emergency.
- ...because drowning doesn't look like most people expect it to - Drowning is a lot quieter than many of us expect, often silent as the person drowning can’t spare any breath to make noise or call out for help.
- Floaties won't keep your little one safe - The only device that has been clearly shown to help keep kids safe is a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Water wings are not safe.
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SOURCE: Huffington Post