10 Essential Pool Safety Tips Every Black Family Should Know

Swimming pools are a fantastic way to have fun, stay fit, and cool off during the hot summer months. However, it’s crucial to remember that pools also come with certain risks. Unfortunately, drowning rates are significantly higher in Black communities due to various historical, socioeconomic, and cultural factors. Here are 10 essential tips to ensure your family enjoys the pool safely while understanding the unique challenges faced by the Black community. 1. Understand the Risks Drowning is a significant concern, particularly for Black children and adults. Knowing the risks is the first step to preventing accidents. Statistical Overview High Drowning Rates: According to the CDC, Black children ages five to 19 drown in swimming pools at rates 5.5 times higher than white children. Recent Trends: Drowning rates have increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. From 2020-2022, over 4,500 people drowned annually in the U.S., about 500 more per year compared to 2019. Demographic Disparities: Black people and American Indian/Alaska Native individuals under 30 have drowning rates about twice as high as their white counterparts. Lack of Swimming Skills: National survey data reveals that 55 percent of U.S. adults have never taken a swimming lesson, with lower participation rates among Black...