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While we don’t like to dwell on the devastating drowning statistics, we do feel it is important from time to time to recognize the risks we are up against. Swimming is a fun activity that promotes health, but most importantly, it has the potential to be a life-saving skill.
As we are setting goals for the New Year, let’s do our part to lower the drowning statistics in 2020 in our community.
DID YOU KNOW?
- An average of 10 fatal drownings occur each day in the U.S.
- Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury related death for children ages 1 to 4.
- An additional 9,000+ victims are seen at U.S. emergency rooms each year for non-fatal submersion injuries.
- 23% of child drownings happen during a family gathering near a pool.
- 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
- A lack of barriers around water contribute to the majority of drowning deaths. Pool fences, self-locking gates, child-proof door locks, door/window alarms, and pool alarms are all barriers that can keep kids safer around water.
- Learning to swim can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% for 1 to 4 year olds who take formal swim lessons.
- Even when children are able to swim on their own, recognize that no one is drown-proof. Water Watchers are ALWAYS necessary. Use a water watcher badge to ensure everyone knows who the designated adult is at any given moment.
- Remember that drowning doesn’t always look like we would expect – it is typically fast and silent, happening in as little as 20-60 seconds. Don’t be distracted – drowning can happen so quickly.
- Use a water safety checklist for more ideas on lowering the statistics.
SWIM LESSONS SAVE LIVES
Another great way to help lower the statistics throughout our community is by supporting organizations like Hope Floats Foundation. This foundation raises money to award scholarships and tuition assistance to underprivileged children who might not otherwise be able to afford swim lessons.
Together, we can all help lower the statistics in the New Year!
OTHER GREAT RESOURCES
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