As Memorial Day kicks off outdoor swimming season, the DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) urges residents to stay safe near water. The Illinois Department of Child and Family Health Services (DCFS) reported that 19 children tragically lost their lives to accidental drowning in 2024. It can happen to anyone at any time.
While swimming offers family fun, safety should always come first. To ensure everyone's well-being in and around the water, parents and caregivers can follow Pool Safely’s easy-to-follow guidelines:
- Supervise Diligently: Never leave a child alone near water. Designate a responsible adult Water Watcher to oversee swimming activities.
- Teach Swimming Skills: Enroll children in swimming lessons suitable for their age and experience.
- Check Drain Safety: Verify that all pools and spas/hot tubs you use have drain covers meeting federal safety standards. If unsure, consult the pool owner or facility manager.
- Prevent Entrapment: Instruct children to stay away from pool drains and pipes. Keep long hair, bathing suit straps, and drawstrings away from drains.
- Install Safety Measures: Set up proper barriers, covers, and alarms around your pool area.
- Learn CPR: Acquire knowledge of CPR techniques for both children and adults.
Taking proactive steps today can save lives, and together, we can work toward zero preventable child drownings – not just this summer, but all year long. Read the full press release here.