In the midst of the full summer season it is important for Islanders to keep swimming pool safety measures in mind advises Chief Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison.
“Although swimming pools are a great source of fun and entertainment, there are potential hazards associated with pools especially for children,” says Dr. Morrison. “In Canada almost half of all drowning and near-drowning incidents in children under 14 years old involve swimming pools.”
Pools are particularly dangerous for children under five years of age. According to Health Canada, drowning is the second highest cause of injury related death in children aged one to four. Research shows that proper fencing could prevent seven out of 10 drowning accidents for children under age five.
“For optimal safety, pool fencing should be four-sided, at least four feet high and equipped with a self-latching gate, “ said Dr. Morrison.
Constant adult supervision of children around pools is also essential. Children can move very quickly and young children can drown in as little as one inch of water.
A Canadian Red Cross study showed that in 42 per cent of drowning incidents involving victims aged five to 14 there was no adult supervision.
Dr. Morrison stressed the importance of also following other general pool safety guidelines such as ensuring children receive swimming and water safety lessons and that they wear life jackets or floatation devices. Keep toys and garden furniture away from the pool to prevent children from climbing on them and falling into the pool, and ensure emergency phone numbers are close by and easily accessible.
For further information visit the Health Canada website at:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html and search swimming pool safety.