Classes are essential for drowning prevention

Classes and various types of training may be required for specific career or job, and, as adults, we understand that. Being a parent is a full-time job, one that requires specialized training for us to be successful.

Classes such as CPR, first aid and swimming classes for children are the responsibility of all parents and can reduce, eliminate and prevent many emergencies, including a drowning. Understanding the importance of basic first aid, including CPR, can save the life of a friend, a family member and your child.

Classes such as CPR, first aid and swimming lessons should be considered for all parents, as well as expecting parents. Many of these classes are available through the city’s Community Services Department, private individuals, the fire department and community colleges. 

Some of these classes may have enrollment costs, but the knowledge and confidence gained is invaluable. The classes listed are just recommendations that would provide valuable information and pre-arrival care that a lay person could utilize before the fire department or an EMS provider arrives.

Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a process of circulating oxygen-rich blood to the heart and brain during cardiac arrests, as well as in respiratory arrests. Many lay persons are afraid of this type of intervention due to the fear of injuring the victim or becoming contaminated during the mouth-to-mouth portion of the resuscitation process.

Accidental injuries, including choking and drowning, are the leading cause of death in children – and send over 16 million kids a year to the emergency room. CPR saves lives! Statistics show the earlier that CPR is initiated, the greater the chances of survival. In fact, the American Heart Association estimates that 100,000 to 200,000 lives of both adults and children could be saved each year if CPR were performed early enough.

First aid classes will give individuals the knowledge and ability to recognize and care for various types of emergencies until paramedics arrive. Bleeding, punctures, broken bones, cuts and scrapes are everyday emergencies that may be encountered, but with the right training they are easy to handle. Most first aid classes can be combined with CPR to minimize your time in the classroom.

Since the focus of this series is water safety and drowning prevention, swimming lessons should be included. Swimming lessons are not save-all measures, but a way to help a child learn the techniques necessary for survival in the event of a water incident.  Swimming lessons build confidence and self esteem as students’ progress in their training. Private swim lessons are often available. Facilities such as Rotary pool, YMCAs and some gyms may offer swimming lessons as well.

We hope that the information provided in these articles has been helpful. Education is key to making Maricopa a water smart community.

Water safety….It’s a family affair!

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

Submitted photo

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