Enjoy Water Wisely This Summer to Keep Kids Safe

In the past our safety articles have addressed different forms of water safety including pool, beach, spa and boating safety measures. This new series for July will only focus on the five water safety measures relative to drowning. Some may ask why only drowning? The answer is simple. Drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1-4. Since we are in the midst of the summer season and temperatures have and are reaching record heat index, many will be enjoying water activities for fun and as a means to cool off. So, this topic is both timely and appropriate. The information which will be shared comes directly from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA). Drowning remains a top cause of unintentional injury, death, for older children, teenagers, and adults. While it could happen to anyone at any age, young children are the most at risk. Their vulnerability is mainly due in part to their innocent and curious nature. Drowning happens quickly and quietly, so one layer of safety is NOT enough. Water safety protection requires multiple layers to help reduce the risk. Drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1-4. (Adobe Stock) Therefore,...