7 tips on how to avoid drowning accidents
JOBURG – The hot temperatures results in people spending time at the pool. Here are a few pool side safety tips.
With the scorching temperatures upon us, some families will be enjoying lots of time by the swimming pool and parents are urged to remain vigilant.
Sun screen is a necessity
Apply a strong sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 40 every hour, especially after towel drying during prolonged periods of swimming. Also a large sun hat and UV sun glasses are a must.
Enjoy the sun, not the sunburn.
Always remain vigilant
According to the Kids Health website, young children are especially at risk — they can drown in less than six centimetres of water. That means drowning can happen where and when you’d least expect it.
Parents should keep an eye on their children at all times.
Floating devices can obstruct your view, therefore make sure you know where your little swimmer is at all times.
Keep all emergency numbers close by
Seconds count when it is a life-threatening situation.
Ensure that people who look after your child have access to the numbers of the family doctor.
Fences and pool nets are not always a guarantee to prevent accidents from happening
Educate the people at your house, including domestic workers and gardeners on how to correctly use a pool net.
Watch a video here from Aqua Nets in Randburg to see how to use one appropriately.
Child Safety Organisation notes that drowning often occurs when the child is fully clothed. Children should practice coping in water with their clothes on.
When an accident does occur here are some tips from Child Safety Organisation to keep calm :
Helping a Child in Trouble
• Throw the victim something that floats or offer a long object to hold on to. It is better than jumping in yourself.
• Discourage children from jumping in to help others. At all costs, avoid a double tragedy.
• If you must go in, take something for the child to hold on to, rather than permitting him to grab you.
• Warn children against faking cries for help or pretending to be in trouble.
• Everybody in your household should be taught simple rescue methods and first aid, especially resuscitation.
Emergency numbers:
SA emergency number, 10111
Cellphone emergency, 112
Ambulance and fire, Randburg, Roodepoort and Johannesburg Central, 011 375 5911.
