Resources
Children who Drown do not Scream, Splash or Struggle
They silently slip beneath the water, most often with a parent nearby
Toddlers love to splash, drizzle, pour and play in water, even if it is a toilet, dog bowl, dishwasher, sink, bucket filled with soapy water, or rain water in a container.
Toddlers are all about Me-Mine-Now. They have no fear, are very curious and are able to think of things that are out of sight or reach. They require patience & constant supervision. Toddlers can wake up unexpectedly and quickly leave a safe area without being noticed. They are quick and on the run.
Toddlers Are at a Great Risk for Drowning
The head of a toddler weighs more than the rest of their body, which makes them likely to topple over when they lean forward. They can drown in water as little as 2 inches.
It Can Happen to You
Many parents who lost a child to drowning never thought their child was at risk.
Do Not Multitask
Supervising a toddler means your eyes are on them and they have your full attention.
Pool time is quality time with your child or children, not a time to text or return phone calls.
Be Vigilant About Doors
Create a routine for everyone in the house, even visitors, to shut and lock doors; check them frequently.
Why do Toddlers Drown?
- Lack of proper adult supervision
- Easy access to water
- Parents, family members do not know how to respond in an emergency
- Parents assume barriers are working properly and effectively in place
Have an Emergency Response Plan in Advance
Plan what steps to take and practice them:
- remove the child from the water
- call 9-1-1
- begin CPR
Don’t Pass the Buck
- Take ownership of your child’s safety.
- Know who is watching your children.
- Do not put the responsibility on siblings or older children to supervise your children.
- Do not think a lifeguard will watch your children like you do; a lifeguard has to watch every swimmer. You can give your child constant, close supervision.
Talk to your Children About Water Safety:
- “Don’t go near a pool without an adult.” This is the most important water safety chat you can have with your child because it is so simple.
- “If you see someone needing help in the water, do not go in the water after them. Run and get an adult”.
- “If you fall in a pool, reach for the wall, hold on, do not be afraid, yell for help, and if you can, climb out.” Practice this with your child in the pool wearing a bathing suit, and also wearing clothing and shoes.
