Now, More Than Ever, It’s Important to Learn How To Be Water Smart

The Children’s Services Council of Broward County wants to remind you - Don’t lose track of where your children are! Now more than ever, distractions can cause a tragedy in and around water. If you can’t find your child, check the water first! Remember the layers of protection: Install alarms on doors leading to water, place fencing around pools, learn CPR, and remember to always be Water Smart!

Did you know drowning is the leading cause of injury and death of children ages 1 to 4 years old? The majority of children who drown in home pools were not expected to be in the water or even near the pool. Most children who drown in a home pool enter the water without the knowledge of their parent or caregiver. Children need capable, close and constant supervision, especially toddlers who may easily and quickly leave a safe, supervised area unnoticed. A dedicated “Water Watcher” can help save children from death or injury from drowning.

SIMPLE STEPS SAVES LIVES

The loss of a child is devastating to parents, siblings, grandparents, relatives and to a community. Drowning is almost always preventable by following these simple steps.

Here are some guidelines to follow: 1. Parents need to talk to their child about water safety. “Don’t go near a pool without an adult.” This is the most important water safety conversation to have because it is so simple. 2. If you see someone struggling in the water, don’t jump in to help. Run and get an

adult. And if you fall into a pool, don’t panic. Turn around, find the wall and climb out or yell for help. 3. Practice this skill in the pool with your child. Have the child practice water safety by wearing clothing in the water to experience the feeling.

Drowning Is Quick AND Silent

• Drowning occurs in as little as 2 minutes. • Irreversible brain damage occurs in as little as 4 minutes. • Most children who drown are out of sight for less than 5 minutes and are usually accompanied by one or both parents whom are nearby. • Most children that die are submerged for as little as 6-10 minutes.

For more information about water safety, please visit cscbroward.org/safeswim and watersmartbroward.org.

About the Children’s Services Council of Broward County

The Children’s Services Council of Broward County is an independent taxing authority which was established by a public referendum on September 5, 2000, and was reauthorized on November 4, 2014, which, through Public Act, Chapter 2000-461 of the laws of Florida, authorized the Council to levy up to 0.5 mills of property taxes. The role of the Council is to provide the leadership, advocacy and resources necessary to enhance children’s lives and empower them to become responsible, productive adults through collaborative planning and funding of a continuum of quality care. To learn more about programs and services the Children’s Services Council funds, please call (954) 377-1000 or visit cscbroward.org. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.