Every year as the temperature increases, so does the number of deaths as a result of drowning. A local security company has issued a plea to parents to take greater care in ensuring the safety of their children when they go for a swim, whether it is at a friend’s or municipal pool or even in the ocean.
Every year as the temperature increases, so does the number of deaths as a result of drowning. A local security company has issued a plea to parents to take greater care in ensuring the safety of their children when they go for a swim, whether it is at a friend’s or municipal pool or even in the ocean.
Peter Kruger, ADT Security’s District Manager for Coastal Outlying, is urging all residents and domestic workers to be extra vigilant and ensure that swimming pools are off limits to small children. “We need to stop these incidents,” he warns.
Kruger outlines several important points to remember when it comes to pool safety:
* Ensure your pool fence is secured and the keys are out of reach of children. Make sure the gate latch is in working condition and if necessary put an additional padlock on the gate.
* Your pool net must always be in a good condition. Nets perish in the sun so make sure you check it is still taut and there are no weak areas.
* Children must always be supervised at the pool by an adult who can swim.
* Don’t assume your children’s friends can swim. Keep the pool off limits if you are unsure.
* Never leave children unsupervised at the pool. Remember that a child can drown within seconds.
Kruger says that besides the physical safety measures you can put in place, carrying a panic button and equipping your domestic worker with one is a good idea.
“It is also good to ensure those who are supervising children in the pool have done a first aid course and can perform CPR in the event of an emergency.”
Many drownings also occur while families are holidaying near rivers or dams.
“Ensure children are watched at all times and wear life jackets with a whistle attached. Never let children, especially those who can’t swim, play in a river or dam without adult supervision. Also be aware that with increased rains come elevated water levels. Streams may become rivers with strong undercurrents,” Kruger warns.
The sea holds a set of its own unique dangers, says Kruger. It demands respect, and for that reason he recommends:
* Never swimming at beaches that are not designated swimming areas.
* Always swimming where there are lifeguards present.
* If there are shark-spotters on duty, make sure that you heed their warnings about the presence of sharks in the water.
* Never swim in the sea at night.
“The most important lesson is simply this – never take chances with water. Educate your children on water safety,” concluded Kruger.
