HHS HealthBeat (July 25, 2008)

Safe in the water

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

Summer activities at swimming pools and beaches can be great fun. But they can also be dangerous.

Anyone of any age can drown, even good swimmers. But drowning is of greatest risk to children, especially in swimming pools.

What can parents do to keep their children safe?

Julie Gilchrist of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Injury Center says parents shouldn’t think that swimming lessons are enough protection for their child.

“Children should always be closely supervised when they’re around the water. If you’re responsible for watching kids, avoid distracting activities that can take your attention away.” (8 seconds)

Adults should be careful too, especially in places like lakes, rivers, and oceans. Gilchrist recommends picking swimming areas that are supervised by certified lifeguards. Learning CPR is also a good way to prepare for an emergency.

Learn more at hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: July, 25 2008