Spring Break and Summer are around the corner! That means cook outs, trips to the park, and, of course, pools and the beach on your summer vacation! While swimming pools are a great place on a hot summer day, they can be very dangerous for children if left unattended. The National Safety Council reports that drowning accidents are a significant cause of death or injury for children under 5 from being left unsupervised. This can include community or neighborhood facilities, private or backyard pools, lakes, water parks, and the beach. Even bathtubs, toilets, and buckets of water can pose a risk to very young children if left unattended. All it takes is a moment of distractions.

So, what can you do to keep your kids safe and have fun? Here are some safety tips:

1. Never leave your child alone. If you need to step away, bring your child with you.

2. Enroll your child in swim lessons. They should learn skills like floating, rolling to their back, and swimming to the sides of the pool. However, keep in mind that even “good swimmers” can drown too, especially if they are tired or there is rough play.

3. Lifeguards are not babysitters.

4. Teach children to stay away from drains.

5. Do not swim alone, and especially not at night.

6. Do not consume alcohol when operating a boat, and make sure everyone has a wellfitting life jacket.

7. Do not dive into unfamiliar or murky water where you cannot see the bottom.

8. Get trained in CPR!

Please visit our website at www.brightonpeds.com for more info.