Pool Safety for Children
Summer is a great time to be in or near the water. Unfortunately, water can be dangerous for children. Accidental drowning in the backyard pool is one of the most common causes of fatalities in children. Our pediatricians can help you protect your child this summer. Dr. Katherine Krieg and Dr. Sharon Novy at Children’s Oasis Pediatrics in Gilbert, AZ, provide comprehensive children’s healthcare, including tips on pool safety.
What You Need To Know About Water Safety
Designate at least one adult to monitor children while they are in the pool. The adult who is monitoring should not be drinking or distracted and should focus on children in the pool and be ready to help if an emergency happens. At least one adult should also know CPR, because knowing CPR can save a child’s life.
These are some general guidelines about pool safety you need to know for small children or children who can’t swim:
- Never leave your child unattended in or near the water, even just for a few minutes. Remember this includes in the bath tub or near a bucket of water
- Make sure your child wears a Coast Guard approved life jacket while on a boat or near water
- Wearing floaties does not prevent a child from drowning
For older children, you need to make sure there is:
- No running around the pool because slippery surfaces can cause a child to hit fall, hit their head, and possibly drown
- No pushing or dunking other children because it can lead to accidental drowning
- No diving unless the pool is at least 9 feet deep
Want To Know More?
Our pediatricians are experts in child safety and can be a valuable resource this summer. To find out more about pool safety and other summer safety tips, call Dr. Krieg and Dr. Novy at Children’s Oasis Pediatrics in Gilbert, AZ. You can reach them in the office by calling (480) 792-1012, so call today.