Child drowning – In our previous article, we talked about how dangerous water can be, recognizing the signs of drowning and first aid skills you need to save someone who is drowning. In this article, we’ll look into strategic ways to prevent drowning. First, here are five things you should not be found doing if you want to prevent drowning.
Learn to recognize the signs of a dangerous body of water so that you don’t inadvertently walk into one. Also, be aware of the location of different water hazards, like trees and other objects that could pose a hazard.
Being unaware of the environment
Learn to recognize the signs of a dangerous body of water so that you don’t inadvertently walk into one. Also, be aware of the location of different water hazards, like trees and other objects that could pose a hazard.
Wearing inappropriate shoes and clothing
It’s important to wear appropriate shoes whenever you are near a pool or other body of water. Wet shoes can become slippery and dangerous, posing a threat of slipping and falling.
Swimming alone
Going for a swim? Whether you are on the beach or at a swimming pool, try to always go with a swim buddy. Do not allow your child(ren) to swim alone, to prevent them from drowning. This way, if one of you begins to experience difficulties in the water, there’s someone close by who can help.
Playing with water toys
It’s often fun to play with water toys like floats, but you should know that these can also pose a serious hazard because they give an illusion of safety, especially for children. It is important to be cautious and remember that floatation devices are not a substitute for close supervision. Make sure your child(ren) is properly monitored when swimming.
Failing to act when you are not sure someone is drowning
If you see someone who may be drowning but are not sure, the most helpful thing you can do is to throw a life preserver or two towards them. This will give them a way to grab hold and pull themselves to safety. You can also tie a rope around a sturdy object and throw the rope into the pool. Once the victim has the rope and holds on to it tightly, you can pull from the center. Unfortunately most drowning victims cannot shout for help so if you have even the slightest concern that someone may be in trouble, take action.
Preventing drowning
Drowning is a preventable cause of accidental death.
There are many ways to prevent your child or family member from drowning, but one of the most important is to create a safe swimming pool in your home. You know how much children love playing in a pool; a swimming pool gives them opportunities to build their confidence and social skills, while strengthening their bodies physically.
Here are practical ways you can prevent your child(ren) from drowning:
- Install a pool fence
- Attach a guard rail to a pool
- Put up a “no swimming” sign
- Put up a “no diving” sign
- Put up warning signs advising people not to enter the water
- Install a pool alarm
- Invest in a good quality floatation device and life preserver
- Ensure everyone takes swimming lessons
Other preventive measures to take:
As an adult, you should pay attention to these measures and also make sure your children are equipped with this knowledge
– Never enter a water body that looks too deep or too dangerous to swim in, such as bodies of water with fast moving currents. If you are unsure of the depth, do not enter.
– Don’t drink alcohol when swimming. Alcohol can reduce your ability to swim safely, and it can also make you feel overconfident in the water, leading to riskier behavior.
– Consult your doctor before swimming if you have a medical condition that may impact your mobility. Medical conditions that affect your mobility (like vertigo, seizures, or if you have a spinal injury).
Swim with caution
When you are near bodies of water such as a pool, river, or ocean, you need to be aware of your surroundings. If someone is drowning near a body of water, you should try to get the person out of the water as quickly and safely as possible.
Drowning is a common occurrence in Nigeria with its several water bodies. Having a number you can call if this happens around you is vital especially during the yuletide season where water bodies are visited by more people.
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Protect yourself and your family against drowning today!
