Drowning is the main reason for death in Arizona (AZ) in children under four years old. (See Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona)
There is no single measure recommended to prevent drownings. What is most advised is a 3-step approach: “Block, Watch and Learn.”
Step One: Block.
Block the pool with a barrier such as a fence or pool cover. Keep bathroom doors shut so small children can’t drown in toilets. Block easy access to water.
Step Two: Watch.
Nearly all drownings take place in buckets, bathtubs, toilets, pools, ponds, and lakes.Constant supervision should be practiced near all the water.
Step Three - Learn.
Learn to swim and take CPR classes. All kids should take swimming lessons additionally.
CPR Training can be the difference between Life and Death to a loved one. Anybody that takes care of children must take CPR classes and recertify every two years.
When you take a CPR Course you will learn to administer CPR to adults, Children, and Infants as per the guidelines established by the American Heart Association.
Typically, when a child drowns first responders such as Paramedics, Firefighters and EMT’s are the first to begin CPR. Many bystanders are unwilling to perform CPR because they are afraid of doing it too agressively or injuring the person further. If your boy or girl drowns, every second counts. You can’t wait for EMT’s to show up to start CPR. Every minute that goes by lessens the chances of survival. CPR is more likely to be successful when administered within the 1st 5 minutes after the patient ceases breathing. How long will it take for help to arrive? Five minutes? Ten minutes? If this is your infant, can you afford to not know CPR?