Now that summer has unofficially come to an end with Labor Day weekend behind us, statistics are starting to trickle out on the number of drownings that occurred during the summer months. According to this press release from the CPSC, there are typically over 200 child drownings in pools or spas between Memorial and Labor Day. This year was no different with at least 172 drownings and 180 reports of non-fatal personal injury throughout the summer. These numbers are for children under age 15, though the majority of accidents are among children between 0 and 4 years old.
The states that top the list for most drownings include California, Florida, Arizona, Texas, and Ohio in that order. The deadliest month for drowning this year was July, with June close behind. Keep in mind though that just because summer is over, doesn’t mean children won’t continue to play in pools and spas, particularly in states with warmer climates. As a Columbia personal injury lawyer , I urge you to take the precautions necessary to keep your pool safe.
One of the best things you can do is to enclose your pool or spa on all four sides and equip it with a latching gate. That way, small children who are unsupervised won’t be able to fall into the pool without your knowing. You should also install an alarm both on the pool gate and your house doors so you will be warned if your child either slips outside without you seeing them, or enters the pool area. A pool cover is also very helpful, as are drain covers. Other than that, enroll your children in a swimming class and take a CPR class yourself. You should have safety equipment such as a life ring close by at all times. However, none of these safety precautions eliminate the need for complete adult supervision at all times.