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National Warnings Echo Sacramento Problems
Children in the greater Sacramento area are faced with two major drowning risks. Toddlers and preschoolers are most at risk around backyard pools, and teens and young adults are at risk in our rivers. These same risks are explained in a new policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
From www.aap.org, March 15, 2019:
“Drowning is the single leading cause of injury-related death among children ages 1 to 4,” said Sarah Denny, MD, FAAP, lead author of the policy statement, “Prevention of Drowning” published online March 15, 2019, in Pediatrics. “Many of these deaths occur when children are not expected to be swimming or when they have unanticipated access to water. Toddlers are naturally curious; that’s why we must implement other strategies, such as pool fencing and door locks.”
The second age group at highest risk of drowning deaths is teens, said Dr. Denny. Every year, about 370 children ages 10 to 19 drown. “Adolescents can be overconfident in their swimming abilities and are more likely to combine alcohol use with swimming – compounding their risk significantly. Children of color, especially African American teens are especially at risk.”
In Sacramento, we advise parents of children ages 1-5 to follow the ABC’s of Drowning Prevention.
A is for Adult Supervision
- Adult supervision is key to drowning prevention. Always assign a “water watcher” who knows how to swim.
- Water wings, noodles, inner-tubes and life jackets should never take the place of adult supervision for children ages 0-5.
B is for Barriers
- Put in, check and always use a child-proof barrier around your pool/spa area.
- The only proven effective barrier is a 5 foot tall non-climbable fence with self-closing, self-latching gates that separates the pool from the house and yard.
C is for CPR & Classes
- Learn CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and rescue breathing.
- Call 911. Start CPR and rescue breathing at pool side — this can save a life.
- Enroll in swim lessons and water safety training.
Visit our water safety program web page for more information, including links to life jacket loaner station locations, and river safety posters.
