DCF issues tips to avoid child drownings, calls them ‘preventable’

Jacksonville, FL — It's a tragic community issue that only seems to be getting worse.

The Department of Children and Families is investigating 9 different child drownings in the Northeast Florida region, including six in the Jacksonville-area.

"Every child drowning is tragic, and each child drowning is preventable," says Florida Department of Children and Families Northeast Region Managing Director Patricia Medlock.

That's why DCF is releasing the following list of steps parents can take to save their children's lives:

•Children Should Be Actively Supervised At All Times: "Someone should always be actively watching children when they are in the pool. This means that parents should not be on the phone or engaged in a big conversation while watching the children. Drowning can happen in just a few minutes. Designate a "Water Watcher" to keep an eye on swimmers. Additionally, never allow a child to supervise another child near or in water.

•Pools Need Barriers: A child should never be able to enter the pool area unaccompanied by an adult. Barriers physically block a child from the pool. Barriers include: child-proof locks on all doors, a pool fence with self-latching and self-closing gates, as well as door and pool alarms. Pool covers may also be used, but make sure it is a professional cover fitted for your pool. A simple canvas covering can be a drowning hazard and entrap a child in the water. Florida law requires barriers for home pools. Check your barriers regularly to make sure they are working properly. Also, make sure the doors of your home have alarms and child-proof locks so that you know if a child has left your home. Pet doors should be locked to keep small children from getting out. Those doors can also be set up to allow pets to come back into the home, but to keep children from leaving.

•Swimming Lessons: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children ages four and older learn to swim in order to help prevent drowning. It also encourages caregivers of children ages one to three to consider swim instruction for their child, as studies have shown it reduces drowning incidents. Adults should learn to swim and also teach their children how to swim. Children from non-swimming households are eight times more likely to be at risk of drowning. To find swimming lessons in your area, contact your local YMCA, city facilities, swim school, or call 2-1-1. Many of these programs have scholarships available.

•If An Emergency Happens, Know What To Do: The moment a child stops breathing there is a small, precious window of time in which resuscitation may occur, but only if someone knows what to do. Even if you're not a parent, it's important to learn CPR. The techniques are easy to learn and can mean the difference between life and death. In an emergency, it is critical to have a phone nearby and immediately call 911. To learn more about CPR or find a CPR certification course, call 2-1-1 or visit the American Red Cross or American Heart Association."

John Harrell, with DCF, tells WOKV, another useful tool for parents is buying an alarm to install on your doors, so you know when a child tries to open it.

For more information on water safety, click HERE.