The Sunshine State is famous for its beautiful beaches and waterways and is known for year-round sunny weather, allowing for endless summers of floating, boating, swimming, and other aquatic activities. However, enjoying the water means abiding by water safety precautions to avoid tragic incidents. 

man supporting child learning to swim in poolDrowning is the leading cause of death across the world for toddlers ages one to four years, and the majority of these deaths occur in swimming pools. Among children younger than a year, the bathtub is the most dangerous body of water infants can face. Whatever age your child is, two inches of water is all it takes to put someone at risk of drowning. Adults should always be within arms reach of young children in the water, even in bathtubs and small inflatable pools. 

The Palm Beach County Drowning Prevention Coalition recommends adults taking turns acting as a “water watcher” in 15-minute increments. These monitors act as temporary lifeguards and can distinguish themselves from the others with a silly hat or flag. The water watcher is the adult who will supervise children in the water without looking away, talking on the phone, or getting distracted by anything else that can divert your attention from the body of water.

Because young children tend to fall into pools without knowing how to get out, it is highly recommended that children not only learn to swim at a young age but that all home pools have a barrier around them to prevent falls. Barriers can be around, on, or in the pools, such as isolation fences, pool safety covers, or pool alarms that meet code requirements.

Children are not the only ones at risk of drowning. About four out of five people who drown or experience a near-drowning are over the age of 14. Alcohol consumption around natural bodies of water or pools can be dangerous and is not recommended, especially not when operating a boat or jet ski. Swimmers should also be on the lookout for and understand the colors and corresponding warnings of beach flags to avoid dangerous currents or rip tides.

Do your part to prevent drowning by becoming certified in CPR. You have the power to save a life when accidents occur. Find a class on our course calendar, or call 561-845-8233 to schedule a class at your location.

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