Swim safety tips to prevent drownings this summer

There’s nothing better than hanging out by the water on a hot day.

But Consumer Products Safety Commission Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric says a fun day at the beach or by the pool can go from family fun to tragedy.

They see a spike in water-related deaths every summer.

“You will see on average nearly or 100 child drownings each year, and 7,000 emergency room visits for drownings. And these can be extremely serious resulting In brain injuries that last a lifetime,” says Hoehn-Saric.

The CPSC says adults should designate a water watcher to keep an eye on kids in the water. They should avoid distractions like their phone.

Next, make sure every pool you use is enclosed.

Learning CPR can save lives in the event of an accident, and make sure kids and weak swimmers are mindful of pool drains. They can suck them down under the water and make it tough to reach the surface.

Knowing the signs of drowning is also important.

Hoehn-Saric says it’s not like in the movies:

“Drowning is not what you see in the movies on television. It’s not this flailing and screaming for help. It can be a silent killer as kids are trapped in training or just below the water.”

The CPCS also says make sure any life jacket you use says it’s Coast Guard certified.

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