Drownings and Near-Drowning Accidents

Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in all age groups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 children die each day by drowning and only birth defects kill more children ages 1 to 4 years.

Although parents usually picture pools when they think about drowning, it is important to keep in mind that kids can drown in almost any body of water, from a bucket of water to a fishing pond.

Common accident sites for drownings include:

• Backyard pools, including above-ground and inflatable pools
• Community pools
• A full or partially filled bathtub
• Hot tubs
• Lakes
• Streams

Of course, kids are also at big risk for drowning in the ocean, especially around rip currents.

Drowning is common. It is estimated that 10 people drown every day. Three children drown each day. And for every drowning, another five children are rescued but may still have severe injuries.

In addition to teaching your kids to swim and child-proofing your pool, be sure to supervise your kids when they are around water. Don't let your guard down just because your child knows how to swim or because there are other people around, such as at a pool party or at a community pool, even when a lifeguard is present.

Also, if your child is ever missing, look for him in your pool, hot tub or other nearby body of water first, as every second counts when rescuing a drowning child.