Water Safety

So many times you here of a child drowning, last Christmas my niece nearly drowned in a backyard pool because every adult thought someone was watching.  

Drowning is the number one killer in the first five years of a child’s life, Swimming lessons do not stop toddlers from drowning constant vigilance is essential when they are anywhere near water as my brother found out.  

In Australia it is mandatory for all swimming pools to have fencing that isolates it from the rest of the house and yard, however the pool my niece fell into was fenced but one of the older kids climbed up and opened the gate.  

Never leave younger toddlers in the care of older children when playing near any type of water whether it’s a pool, bath, beach ect. Even with flotation devices on children should still be supervised by an adult  

 If your going to a party where there is a pool or some form of water, work out before hand what adult will be drinking (alcohol) and which one will be looking after the kids, do not rely on other adults at the party to keep an eye on them.  

Always drain your wading pool when finished and if you have an above ground pool remove the ladder.   People often think its only pools ect that children drown in but nappy buckets, spas, fish ponds pets drinking bowls and toilet bowls can also be a hazard.  

Best thing you can do for your kids apart from supervising them is to learn first aid especially for drowning, learn how to give resuscitation you may just save a life.