3 On Your Side: Pool Safety Advice
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and for many that means time in the pool. While swimming is a major part of summer fun, it can also be dangerous. 3 On Your Side Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan has new numbers from the Consumer Product Safety Commission indicating young children are most susceptible to drowning accidents.
A report from CPSC finds on average 390 children younger than age 15 drown in pools and spas every year. Three-in-four fatalities, are younger than five.
The majority of incidents occur in backyard pools, so the American Red Cross urges everyone to think like a lifeguard.
Connie Harvey with the Red Cross says, "Many people think that the right thing to do is jump in and go after somebody. But that can put two lives in danger. So we want to make certain that any rescuer is doing the right thing and keeping themselves safe as well."
If you do see someone in distress, shout for help and get attention of others, reach or throw a rescue or flotation device, call 911 if necessary, and give immediate care, if needed. A very important message is that everyone needs to know CPR, so that in the event that something does happen, they'll know how to respond.
In addition to making sure kids have swimming training, the CPSC advises adults get comfortable in the water too.
Inez Tenenbaum of the CPSC says, "If you're from a family where the adults have never learned to swim, make it a family affair. Go take swimming lessons this summer. You'll have a lot of fun learning to swim."
For more information on pool and spa safety visit:
http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Sports-Fitness-and-Recreation/Pools-and-Spas/
