Adult supervision is 1st step in drowning prevention

In my first article on drowning prevention and water safety I discussed the importance of raising awareness for the epidemic of drowning spreading across the Valley. There are three essential steps to learn and follow anytime you are around water, especially with children.

This article will introduce you to the first step to water safety and drowning prevention, adult supervision.

The most important step, adult supervision sounds simple, but the lack of supervision or “eyes on the water” is the most common cause of child drowning events. Adult supervision requires your undivided attention when children are near or involved with any type of water activities. 

Designate an individual to be the “Water Watcher” or “Child Watcher” anytime there is activity in or around the pool, rotate the position to allow others to feel the responsibility that comes with that title. The individual who is in that position should scan the water, the area around the water and point out and stop any activity, fix any hazards or problems that may be spotted immediately. Constant, uninterrupted supervision will help prevent another drowning from occurring. Remember to keep focused and follow these steps:

- Don’t answer the phone
- Don’t answer the door
- Don’t run to get something
- Don’t rely on other siblings to watch each other
- Don’t leave buckets unattended

There is no distraction worth someone’s life.

A child can drown in as little as a few inches of water. Water activities such as showering, bathing and cleaning are often overlooked as true water activities; however, these types of activities claim several lives each year. These events occur daily, making them some of the most dangerous and often overlooked hazards.   

Spa and Jacuzzi-type water features have additional hazards such as low water levels, drains causing entrapment and difficult visibility in above ground units. Supervision that prevents children from jumping into shallow bodies of water will prevent diving or jumping type injuries. 

Adult supervision is one of the safety rules that have proven to help prevent these emergencies from occurring. In my next article I will follow up with the next step, B- Barrier Protection, and explain layers of protection.  Thank you for your time with such

Drowning is a preventable event that we all can help avoid or limit in OUR community.

Remember: “Water Safety…Truly is a Family Affair!”

Carlos Schulz, Maricopa Fire Department Drowning Prevention Coordinator; Engineer/Paramedic

Submitted photo

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