Ah, the blissful days of summer! Lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun, and finally bidding farewell to the long, dreary winter. But if you’re a parent, you know those carefree moments by the water come with a heavy dose of responsibility.
When it comes to the pool, it’s time to swap relaxation for vigilance. Sure, it’s easy to be a laid-back mom at the park or within the safety of your home, but at the pool, you need to adopt your most protective instincts.
Startling Statistics
According to the CDC, the facts are sobering:
- Drowning ranks as the second leading cause of death for children aged one to four, trailing only car accidents.
- Approximately ten individuals drown every day; two of them are kids under 14.
- Of the 750 children expected to drown next year, around 375 will do so within just 25 yards of an adult.
Understanding Drowning
How can such tragic statistics exist? It’s essential to understand that the typical signs we associate with drowning—flailing arms and cries for help—are misleading. Mario Vitali explored this concept in-depth in an impactful article last year. He explains that:
- Those who are drowning often cannot call out for help.
- They are unable to wave their arms; instead, their bodies instinctively extend their arms sideways and press down on the water.
- Without intervention from a lifeguard, a drowning person can only remain afloat for 20 to 60 seconds before going under.
True Signs of Drowning
So, what are the true signs of drowning? Vittali suggests looking for:
- A head that is low in the water, with the mouth at water level.
- A head tilted back with an open mouth.
- Glassy, unfocused eyes or eyes that are shut.
- Hair hanging over the forehead or eyes.
- A vertical position without leg movement.
- Gasping or hyperventilating.
- Struggling to swim in a certain direction without making progress.
- Attempting to roll onto their back.
- Appearing to climb an imaginary ladder.
Secondary Drowning
Moreover, the risk of drowning doesn’t end when a child exits the water. “Secondary drowning” can occur when a small amount of water enters the lungs, often surfacing hours after the incident. Check out one mom’s story on this here. If your child coughs persistently, has trouble breathing, or seems off after ingesting water, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical attention.
Yes, these facts are frightening, but knowledge is power. Let’s prioritize the safety of our little ones this summer so we can celebrate their return to school in the fall.
Additional Resources
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In summary, understanding the real dangers associated with drowning can empower parents to take necessary precautions. By staying informed and vigilant, we can create a safer environment for our children to enjoy summer fun.