An infant or young child can drown in as little as
1 in. (2.5 cm) of water or
other liquid. The following recommendations can help you protect your child
from drowning hazards.1
Do not leave babies and young children alone in the bathtub or a
swimming or wading pool. If a baby slips or rolls and lands face down, he or
she may not be able to turn over. Bathing seats or flotation devices may be
used, but they do not protect against drowning and are not a substitute for
your attention.
Do not leave babies and young children alone around filled
buckets, such as 5-gallon buckets used for cleaning. Empty buckets after each
use, and keep them out of children's reach. Buckets have tall, straight sides,
which makes it very difficult for infants and young children to escape once
they have fallen in.
Leave toilet lids down. Keep young children out of the bathroom
without your direct supervision. Make sure your toddler knows that the toilet
is not a toy. Toilets are drowning hazards, especially for children younger
than 3. An older baby or young child can fall headfirst into the water and not
be able to climb back out. Consider placing a latch on the bathroom door, out
of reach of young children.
Empty all liquid containers immediately after use. Make sure all
empty containers are out of reach of young children and babies. Do not leave
them in the yard or around the house. They can accumulate water and become a
drowning hazard.
Empty ice chests immediately after use, and keep lids closed.
Store out of children's reach.
Watch children closely outdoors, especially where wells, open
postholes, and irrigation or drainage ditches are nearby. Fill holes and
install fences or other barriers to protect your child. Make sure pools are
fenced off and have covers that lock. Don't let a child out of your sight while
you are doing yard work or other outdoor activities.
Other Places To Get Help
Organization
American Academy of Pediatrics
141 Northwest Point Boulevard
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007-1098
Phone:
(847) 434-4000
Fax:
(847) 434-8000
E-mail:
kidsdocs@aap.org
Web Address:
www.aap.org
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers a
variety of educational materials, such as links to publications about parenting
and general growth and development. Immunization information, safety and
prevention tips, AAP guidelines for various conditions, and links to other
organizations are also available.
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