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5/16/2003
According to the National Safety Council,
drowning claims about 4,000 lives each year and is the third
leading cause of accidental death in the United States.
Drowning can occur in natural environments
like lakes, ponds, rivers, in public and private swimming
pools, spas, and hot tubs. Accidental falls into the water account
for more than half of all drownings. These accidents often are
caused by horseplay, roughhousing, the use of alcohol or drugs,
or simply a child's curiosity.
Most water-related injuries are preventable.
Avoid tragedy by following safety rules, practicing safe swimming
and diving skills, and recognizing hazardous situations. Follow
these precautions for a safer and more enjoyable swimming season:
- Always supervise children in and around the water.
- Obey posted safety rules.
- Have adequate flotation devices on hand in case of emergencies.
- Recognize signs of fatigue, especially in children.
- Never leave children alone or out of eye contact while they
are in or near water.
- Always use approved personal-flotation devices, rather than
inflatable toys, to keep your child afloat.
- If you own a pool, insist that all adults in your family
learn CPR.
- Discuss pool rules, safety measures and procedures, and
water depths with your guests before they enter the water.
- With aboveground pools, hot tubs, and spas secure and lock
steps and ladders leading from the ground to the recreational
area, or remove them completely when the facility is not being
used.
- Always use a locked safety cover when spas and hot tubs
are not in use and keep young children away unless there is
constant adult supervision.
- Make sure spas have dual drains and drain covers required
by current safety standards.
- Regularly have a professional check your spa or hot tub
and make sure it is in good, safe working condition, and that
drain covers are in place and not cracked or missing. Check
the drain covers yourself throughout the year.
- Know where the cut-off switch for your pump is so you can
turn it off in an emergency.
Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. For information, call 703-246-3801 and TTY 703-285-4419.
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