Summer weather has arrived, and nothing cools you down better than a dip in the pool. But there are a few things you should know before jumping in.
Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death among children 1-4 years of age. It’s also the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children 19 and under.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, in conjunction with Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, produced a series of public service announcements to remind people just how dangerous backyard pools can be.
Below are all six version of the PSA — three in English, and the same three in Spanish.
Deadly Silence: Version I
Deadly Silence: Version ll
Deadly Silence: Version lll
Keep in mind these safety tips when swimming:
Watch kids when they are in or around water
Keep young children and weak swimmers within arm’s reach of an adult. Make sure more experienced swimmers are with a partner every time.
Choose a Water Watcher
When there are several adults present, choose one to be responsible for watching children in or near the water for a certain period, such as 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, select another adult to be the Water Watcher.
Teach children how to swim
Every child is different, so enroll children in swim lessons when they are ready. Consider their age, development and how often they are around water.
Make sure kids learn these five water survival skills
- Step or jump into water over their head and return to the surface.
- Turn around in the water and orient to safety.
- Float or tread water.
- Combine breathing with forward movement in the water.
- Exit the water.
Teach children that swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool
Be aware of situations that are unique to open water, such as limited visibility, depth, uneven surfaces, currents, and undertow. These potential hazards can make swimming in open water more challenging than swimming in a pool.
Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills
It is important to know how to respond in an emergency without putting yourself at risk of drowning. Learning these skills may help you save a life.
Safety Resources: