Preventing Drowning Accidents
With so many warm temperatures in the United States, particularly in the summertime, it’s no wonder Americans have developed a love for swimming. Using pools to escape the summertime heat is a national past time. So, understanding how to prevent drowning can help to reduce any unfortunate accidents that can turn good times into bad ones. To combat drowning, here are some useful tips to make a swimming pool safer for everyone near it. Plus, these recommendations aren’t just useful for pools; they can and should be used around any body of water such as a pond, lake, spa, or bath.
- Be on the Lookout
An adult should be designated to watch a body of water continually, even if no one is using it. If necessary, adults should take shifts watching the pool during a party to make sure there is always someone focusing on preventing potential accidents. When children under the age of four are near water, touch supervision (staying within arms reach) should be used for young children.
- Don’t Swim Alone
Only swim if other people are nearby to help. Even the best swimmers can have accidents that can quickly turn deadly. In any public pool or lake, a lifeguard should be on duty before anyone gets in the water.
- Don’t Drink and Swim
Consuming alcohol is not a good idea if there is water nearby. Alcohol’s effects can impair coordination and judgment, even in the most skilled swimmers.
- Be Aware of Swimming with Medical Conditions
A swimmer with a known medical condition, such as a seizure disorder, should wear safety gear and have their activities watched. Anyone who might suddenly lose the ability to swim should wear a lifejacket in large bodies of water. Furthermore, individuals with medical conditions may want to take a shower instead of a bath.
- Get the Kids Swimming Lessons
Swimming lessons save lives. However, children still need to be supervised and watched in or near the water, even if they have had swimming lessons. Additionally, it’s wise to set up child-proof barriers, even if the kids can swim.
- Know CPR and Basic First Aid
Knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can save someone’s life if there is a drowning accident. Drowning can take someone’s life while waiting for emergency responders to arrive. CPR can keep the drowning victim alive until professional comes.
- Use Coast Guard Approved Safety Gear
Air-filled or foam devices are likely bot Coast Guard approved. To be safe, use safety life jackets and other equipment that have U.S. Coast Guard approval.
Pool Owners Have a Legal Responsibility
Premises owners have a legal responsibility to prevent pool accidents. Pools have inherent hazards, and property owners are legally required to ensure they are mitigating the dangers. If you or a loved one suffered an accident at a pool, attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and best interests. Drowning accident lawyers are prepared to make negligent parties answer for their behavior, so they never what happened to you doesn’t happen to someone else.