Promote Safe Behaviors

 Because children move quickly, are curious and do not understand their physical abilities, they must be watched carefully around even small bodies of water.

 The majority of drownings occur within a surprisingly short period of time.

 Never, ever, leave a child alone, even for a moment, when there is a body of water in the environment.

 When near water, always reinforce safety for the children.

 Plan water play when children are the least tired and most alert.

 Teach children safe practices for swimming and playing in the water.

 Have a telephone within easy reach at all times. Learn proper response if there is a water emergency and act immediately

 Pull the child from the water and place the child on his/her back.

 Check for breathing, and clear mouth and nose of any obstructions.

 Get another adult to call for emergency help.

 Begin rescue breathing or CPR as needed until the child is revived or help arrives.

Preventing Drownings  Never leave a child alone in or near any body of water (tub, wading pools, shower, pool, water table or even a bucket).

 Always provide careful, direct and constant supervision of young children if there is a body of water present in the environment.

 Never expect swimming instruction to eliminate the risk of drowning in children.

 Supervise children in the water even if they are wearing flotation devices. These devices are not substitutes for constant supervision.

 Any hazard should be enclosed with a fence that is at least five feet tall and not easy to climb. A door or sliding glass door is not a safe substitute for a fence.

 Gates should have locks that are at least 55 inches high and self-closing. Keep gate keys in a safe place away from children.

 Never leave pool covers partially in place because children can become trapped beneath them. Pool covers are not a substitute for fencing.

 Keep chairs, tables and climbing equipment away from pool fences to prevent children from climbing over the fence into the pool.

 Learn CPR and keep rescue equipment at poolside, including a life preserver, shepherd’s crook and cordless telephone to call 9-1-1.

 If a portable wading pool is used in child care (although it is not recommended), it should be filled with water, used immediately, drained and put away as soon as children leave the pool.

 Never leave infants or children unattended around five-gallon buckets containing even a small amount of liquid. Empty buckets when not in use.

 Children with seizure disorders are particularly vulnerable to drowning. Know your children’s medical history.