Monday, June 28, 2010

Children Drown Without a Sound

With the warm summer months upon us and kids getting out of school, it’s time to hit the pool for some water fun and that is when tragedy can strike!

“Children drown without a sound and water safety is a serious matter,” said OCFA Fire Chief Keith Richter. “Learning the ABC’s of Water Safety will provide added layers of protection for you and your family. We all can make a difference in a child’s life by educating the public about the importance of active, adult supervision around the water, multiple barriers around pools & spas, as well as classes for children and adults.”

California leads the nation in drownings. These needless tragedies are the leading cause of accidental injury and death in children under the age of five and the second leading cause of death in children under the age of 14. In Southern California, drowning prevention and water safety should be practiced on a year-round basis with special emphasis during the summer months. The link below shows the ABC’s of water safety. By learning these water safety tips you and your child will learn how to prevent drownings.

Water Safety Tips from the Orange County Fire Authority
http://www.ocfa.org/

Below is a video illustrating the OCFA's efforts in preventing drownings.

Video: http://www.cbs2.com/video/?id=137376@kcbs.dayport.com