The terrible truth is that children drown silently. Quietly and quickly. Many people think that drowning is accompanied by cries for help and violent movements. An inflatable children's pool, a knee-deep pond, the seashore, a lake, a water container - it can happen anywhere. Just a moment of inattention can lead to tragedy.
How to understand that a child is drowning?
- The child freezes, eyes wide open and does not move. He may go under the water with his head and push off sharply, this may continue several times and it seems that the child is playing.
- The child may make chaotic movements and wave his arms.
- The gaze is glassy, the eyes are wide open, the lips are pursed.
- Holds head low in water or face down.
- Tilts his head back, opens his mouth.
Rules for parents
Any containers with water that are more than 5 cm deep are a potential risk, especially in a country house, cottage, and even an inflatable pool.
Use an inflatable pool with water – never leave your child unattended. Never!
When relaxing near water bodies (lake, river, sea), do not leave children unattended, even on the shore. From the shore to the water - a few seconds. Choose only equipped beaches and places for recreation with children.
Familiarize yourself with the bottom features, current, water temperature and depth before allowing your child to swim. Only allow your child to swim with or with the consent of an accompanying adult.
Watching your child in the water means looking at them without being distracted by your smartphone, others, or a book. Seconds make all the difference. This is very important!
We choose and organize a bathing spot for a young child in such a way that you are at arm's length or two steps away.
When choosing an inflatable swimming device for your child, remember(!) that they cannot guarantee the child's safety in the water.
Before each season, make sure to review swimming lessons with your child. Do not trust older children to supervise younger children near or in the water.
Teenagers also require supervision and attention when in the water. It is important that the responsible adult is clear about how many children they are supervising and is sober.
The simple rule that any movement to the water must be coordinated with parents saves children's lives.
Forbid any mischief with shouts of "Ton!" or "Help!".
Never leave small children unattended, even if they can swim.
Don't rely on another rescuer or others.