New stats show pool safety is still a top concern

The CPSC has released new statistics on drowning, near-drowning and entrapment incidents.  "CPSC's new data show that the number of drownings and near-drownings involving children younger than five are still a serious public health issue," said CPSC Chairman Inez M. Tenenbaum.  

 Their statistic show:

An annual average of 383 pool and spa-related drownings for children younger than 15 occurred from 2006 to 2008; about 76 percent of the reported fatalities involved children younger than five. (cpsc.gov)

Based on reported statistics, 96% of victims involved in a submersion incident will die. Fatalities usually occur the day of the drowning event (72%). For the victims who survive the event, most will succumb to their injuries within a week (24%). Only 4% of near drowning victims will survive beyond a week, and many will have severe injuries and require intensive medical care.(cpsc.gov)

72% of fatalities and 55%  of injuries of children occurred in residential pools/spas.  (cpsc.gov)

Poolsafely.gov is CPSC's public safety campaign aimed at educating parents, children, pool operators and state and local officials.  Find options for safety systems, videos on creating a safe swimming environment, latest recalls, links to professionals in your area and even a video for kids on pool safety and family fun in the water. 

You can also go to websites like abcpoolsafety.org,  download a pdf of tips from the American Red Cross, and visit the American Academy of Pediatrics for their tips for water and sun safety. They even have advice on heat stress and boating safety.   

"Whether it's providing swimming lessons, installing a pool alarm, or just keeping a close eye on them while they're in the water-all of these steps will help prevent an incident." said Janet Evans, five-time Olympic medalist in swimming. "As a parent, I know how important it is that I take every precaution to ensure the safety of my children in and around the water,"(cpsc.gov)