How to help prevent childhood drowning
The regulations and method of CPR is always changing – Click here for the Qld Governments health direct current procedure. If you are responding to a drowning – call 000 right now.
The Royal Lifesaving Association of Australian has a “Keep Watch” campaign that is based around water safety through all aspects of water such as pool and baths for children. There 4 key points to preventing childhood drowning are Supervise, Restrict Access, Water Awareness and Resuscitate.
Supervise – the Royal Lifesaving Association of Australia recommend that you keep watch at all times and depending on the age of the child even be in the water in arms reach of the child.
Restriction – Refers to pool fences, baby gates, closing doors, ensure latches work, and that lids are placed on correctly.
By law any pool with a depth greater than 300mm requires a fence.
Water awareness – combines a range of strategies and activities designed to keep your child safe when in, on, or around water. These include water familiarization, checking for and removing water hazards, setting rules around water and discussing water safety with your child. There are many programs that can be covered through local swimming schools to get children used to water and to build confidence. Water awareness can start in your very own home at bath time. This is a great time for your baby to feel the water and get used to it.
Resuscitation – it is important that you are trained in CPR. If ever you find your child has suffered a drowning – It is important that you stay calm and react immediately to the situation.
Child drowning happens quickly. It is very important to stay alert and react when needed.
