TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – Summer is quickly approaching and with it families will be spending more time outdoors and near water to stay cool.
According to the CDC, there were approximately 4,000 accidental drownings each year in the 2010s. Since 2020, that number has increased by 500 to 600 per year, and the drowning rate among preschoolers has jumped by 30 percent.
Smith County ESD 2 Deputy David Gerard says calls for drownings increase during the summer.
“It's a great time to get outside and get the pool ready. There's a lot of activity going on around the pool this time of year. Sometimes the kids get interested and jump out to help. “There is,” Gerald said.
There will be 90 child drownings in Texas in 2023, an increase of about 20% from the previous year.
Kim Utley of East Texas ISR trains children what to do if they accidentally fall into the pool. It may look scary, but these babies are actually learning life-saving skills.
“We start at six months old when they can sit up independently. These children can learn how to float on their backs and stay afloat in case they accidentally fall. Older children over 1 year old can learn how to swim, float, and swim as long as they can walk on their own.
Ellie Derksen, survival swimming instructor at Tyler Swim Center, says there are things you can do at home.
“I recommend splashing a little water on their face. I know it's a little scary, but just to get them used to the experience. You can also try showing them how to hold their breath, even just by blowing on their face. It's a great way to learn,” Dirksen said.
Supervision is absolutely necessary if children are near water. Smith County ESD 2 also recommends installing alarms around the door and pool area, installing a gated fence around the pool, and having parents certified in CPR.
“The worst thing that can happen is complacency. People become complacent and trust their children. I trust my children, but accidents happen,” Gerald said.
Smith County ESD 2 offers CPR classes to those who wish to take them. If you are interested, please call us at (903) 617-6578.
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