Children aren't waterproof!

Drowning is the "silent killer". There is often no cry for help and very little sounds from splashing. Teaching an infant to swim is a fun activity, but can develop a false sense of security in the parents of small children. Just because a child knows how to swim does not mean s/he can save his/her own live if alone in the water. Factors that contribute to drowning such as clothing, fatigue, horseplay--may not be included in swim instruction.

Typically, the most common drowning victim is a 2-year old male who is last seen in a "safe area," far from the pools edge. Children are not the only victims of drowning. Adults have also been drowning victims from many factors: fatigue, excessive use of alcohol, diving from unsafe areas and over exertion, to name a few..

Supervision is the key to preventing a child from drowning. Additional protection can be installed around your back yard swimming pool.

These include:

a fence separating the pool from the house and yard;

any gate used must be self-closing and latching;

rescue equipment should be readily available;

learn CPR and know how to use it;

NEVER leave a child alone in or around a pool to answer the phone or door;

if you leave, your child may be gone forever;

please be urged to follow these simple steps to help avoid medical expenses, parent misery and the loss of a loved one.

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 The Fellowship Of Christian Firefighters

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