Prevent In-Home Drownings

 

Mention drowning hazards, and quite possibly the first thing that springs to mind is the danger of backyard pools. In recent years, an average of about 250 children under 5-years-old drown in pools nationwide each year. Additionally, over 100 young children drown each year in other products in and around homes -- including bathtubs, buckets, toilets, hot tubs, spas and other containers.

The bathroom is full of dangers for a young child. Never leave a young child unattended in the bathroom, especially while bathing - even if the child appears to be well propped in a safety tub or bath ring. Put away all hair dryers and other electrical appliances to avoid the risk of electrocution.

In-home drowning prevention tips

1. Never leave a baby alone in a bathtub for even a second.
   
   

2. Always keep the baby in arm's reach.
   
   

3. Don't leave a baby in the care of another young child.
   
   

4. Never leave to answer the phone, answer the door, to get a towel or for any other reason. If you must leave, take the baby with you.
   
   

5. A baby bath seat is not a substitute for supervision. A bath seat is a bathing aid, not a safety device. Babies have slipped or climbed out of bath seats and drowned.
   
   

6. Never use a baby bath seat in a non-skid, slip-resistant bathtub because the suction cups will not adhere to the bathtub surface or can detach unexpectedly. Babies could tip over and drown.
   
   

7. Never leave a bucket containing even a small amount of liquid unattended. When finished using a bucket, always empty it immediately.
   
   

8. Don't leave buckets outside where rainwater can collect in them. Toddlers can drown is as little as 2 inches of liquid. Babies and younger children can drown is AS LITTLE AS THREE TEASPOONS of liquid!
   
   

9. Always secure safety covers and barriers to prevent children from gaining access to spas or hot tubs when not in use. Some non-rigid covers, such as solar covers, can allow a small child to slip in the water and the cover would appear to still be in place.
   
   

10. Keep the toilet lid down to prevent access to the water and consider using a toilet clip to stop young children from opening the lids. Consider placing a latch on the bathroom door out of reach of young children.
    
    

11. Learn CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) -- it can be a lifesaver when seconds count. Most YMCA's and local school systems have classes free.
    
    

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