Health professionals stress the importance of supervising children in water as drownings rise nationwide
Roanoke, Virginia – As one of the busiest water activity weekends approaches, alarming statistics reveal a 12 percent increase in drownings among children under 15 years old nationwide. This surge has prompted local health professionals to issue stern warnings to parents about the critical importance of supervising their children near water. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for young children between the ages of one and four, highlighting a pressing need for vigilant parental oversight.
Local medical professionals, including Ottilia Lewis, the trauma outreach coordinator at Carilion Clinic, are emphasizing the importance of constant supervision whenever children are near water. Lewis warns that it takes very little water and time for drowning to occur. “Kids can drown in just 20 seconds in one inch of water,” she cautioned, stressing the urgency of keeping children within sight and reach at all times during water activities.
“As parents, you really want to stay pretty much within an arm’s reach away from your child in the water so that you can get to them very quickly and administer aid,” Lewis advised. Additionally, she recommended that children wear brightly colored bathing suits in shades of red, orange, or yellow. These colors make it easier for parents to spot their children in the water, adding an extra layer of safety against the potential dangers of drowning.
This simple but effective strategy can be a lifesaver, ensuring that children are always within sight and promptly accessible in case of an emergency. As families flock to the water this season, adhering to these safety guidelines could be the key to preventing tragic incidents and ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer for all.
