5 Ways to Prevent Drowning Injuries
Drowning is a leading cause of accidental injury and death, especially among young children. It happens quickly, quietly, and often without warning. The good news? Most drowning incidents are preventable. At Patterson Legal Group, our Missouri personal injury lawyers are committed to helping families stay safe by raising awareness about water safety. Here are five critical ways to help prevent drowning injuries and keep your loved ones safe this summer.
1. Always Provide Active and Constant Supervision
Unsupervised water access is the number one risk factor in child drownings. Children can slip under the water silently and in mere seconds. That’s why uninterrupted supervision is absolutely vital anytime children are near water–even if it’s just a few inches deep.
- Stay alert: Avoid distractions like phones, books, or conversations.
- Never assume someone else is watching: Always confirm who is in charge.
- Babies and toddlers require extra care: For children under the age of 5, “touch supervision”–staying within arm’s reach–is essential.
Even adults should swim with a buddy and avoid swimming under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
2. Assign a Designated “Water Watcher”
When several adults are present, it’s easy to assume someone is keeping an eye on the pool–but that’s how accidents happen. Avoid this by designating a Water Watcher, whose sole responsibility is to monitor swimmers.
- Use a visible badge or tag to designate the Water Watcher.
- Rotate duties every 15–30 minutes to prevent fatigue.
- This person should be free from distractions–no scrolling, chatting, or multitasking.
A few minutes of focused attention can save a life. Never rely on lifeguards alone if you’re at a public pool or beach.
3. Secure Pools and Spas with Physical Barriers
Backyard pools should be treated like any other potential hazard. Installing the proper barriers can prevent unsupervised access, particularly by young children.
- Install a four-sided isolation fence around all pools and spas.
- Fencing should be at least four feet high and non-climbable.
- Use self-closing, self-latching gates that open outward, with latches out of a child’s reach.
Also:
- Remove toys and floats from the pool area when not in use–they can attract children to the water.
- Consider alarms or pool covers as additional layers of protection, but never as a substitute for fencing.
4. Teach Water Safety and Swimming Skills
Swimming is not just a fun activity–it’s a life-saving skill. Enrolling children (and adults) in formal swim lessons significantly reduces drowning risk.
Focus on water competency, including:
- Entering the water safely
- Treading or floating for at least one minute
- Swimming at least 25 yards
- Exiting the water unassisted
- Choose a program that is age-appropriate and taught by certified instructors.
And remember–it’s never too late to learn. Adults who aren’t confident swimmers should also consider lessons, especially if they’re supervising kids around water.
5. Use Life Jackets and Be Ready for Emergencies
Life jackets save lives, particularly in open water, boating environments, or for weak swimmers. But not all flotation devices are created equal.
- Always choose U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
- Ensure the life jacket fits snugly, taking into account the wearer’s weight and size.
- Don’t rely on inflatable toys or water wings–they are not designed for safety.
In addition to life jackets, every supervising adult should be trained in CPR and basic water rescue techniques:
- Take a certified CPR course, which is available through organizations such as the Red Cross or local hospitals.
- Learn the “Reach or Throw, Don’t Go” method to safely help someone without endangering yourself.
- Keep a fully charged phone nearby, preloaded with emergency numbers.
Quick, informed action during an emergency could be the difference between life and death.
Contact a Missouri Personal Injury Lawyer
Here at Patterson Legal Group, we’re happy to provide the information you need about how to prevent drowning injuries. We’re also here for you if you or someone you love has suffered drowning injuries through no fault of your own. Our dedicated team of litigators and trial lawyers has a proven track record of success in securing settlements for those hurt in Kansas, as well as in Missouri, Oklahoma, and Colorado. We will fight for you every step of the way.
Get started today with a free consultation by calling us at 888-687-2400 or going online through our secure contact form. You can also connect with our LiveChat representatives. We work under a “No Win, No Fee” promise, so you won’t pay anything unless we win. Reach out today and take the first step towards the money you deserve.
