What better way to cool off during the long, hot days of summer than a refreshing dip in cool water? Even with the promise of fun that swimming in pools, streams, and lakes provide, it is not without risks.

 

Every year in the U.S. nearly 900 children and adolescents die from unintentional drowning. Diving a little deeper into the grim reality we learn that more children between the ages of 1 to 4 die from drowning than any other cause. For children ages 5 to 14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death. While most drownings in children 1 to 4 happen in swimming pools, babies and young children can drown in as little as 2 inches of water (think bathtubs, garden ponds, and buckets). 

 

The most critical steps for preventing accidental drowning are vigilance on the part of adults and clear communication with children. Before you head out to a body of water to swim, paddle, or enjoy a boat ride, speak to children about the ground rules. These should include:

 

No Swimming Alone—EVER. This rule applies to everyone—even strong swimmers.   

 

Swim Only in Designated Areas. Whether you are at a public pool or beach, make sure children understand they are only to swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard.

 

Skip Breath-Holding Games. Because holding your breath for extended periods of time can lead to hyperventilation or even cause you to pass out, breath-holding games should be discouraged. Further, kids should not try to swim underwater for long periods without coming up for air.

 

Stay Away from Pool Drains. Pool drains are a swimming hazard in plain sight as bathing suits and even hair can get caught in them, leading to injury or even drowning. Before kids enter a public or private pool, point out the pool drains and tell them to stay away from them. 

 

Closely Supervise Inexperienced Swimmers. Always stay within reach of a weak or inexperienced swimmer while in water. Young children or inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water. However, you should not rely on life jackets, water wings, swim rings, inflatable toys or other items designed for water recreation as a substitute for adult supervision. 

 

Be Vigilant. Even when lifeguards are present, you should provide close and constant attention to children, no matter how well the child can swim or how shallow the water. Avoid distractions, including cell phones. Never leave young children unattended near water and do not trust a child's life to another child. If you need to step away, either have your swimmers exit the water completely until you return or designate another responsible adult to serve as a 'water watcher.' Make sure children are aware that this individual is in charge until your return.

 

In addition, children should be taught to swim as soon as possible. Contact your local pool (see below) to learn when they're hosting lessons:

 

MASSACHUSETTS

Williamstown

Sand Springs Pool

NEW YORK

Hoosick Falls

Weir-Reynolds Community Pool

VERMONT

Bennington

Bennington Rec - Berkshire Family YMCA

Manchester

Manchester Town Pool

If you own a pool (and even if you don’t), it’s a good idea to learn CPR in case of an emergency. Click here to find training in your area.

Spencer Ciancola, PA, is a member of the ExpressCare team at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.