Summer: Swim against the sun

GAG says, 'Swimming Pool Safety'

(GAG: Good Advice Guru)

The weather is warming up to the point that we will start to spend more and more time at the pool. With the warm weather we experience here in Chiang Mai, we could swim the entire year!

We'hv read about 'Pool Safety' of the State Department -- Drowning was the leading cause of accidental death for toddlers.

However, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for toddlers in the United States! Never heard what is the cause of death for toddlers in Thailand. Well be safe this summer.




Why are toddlers vulnerable to drowning in swimming pools?

• Toddlers typically drown by the time their caregivers notice their absence. Look in the pool first if a child is missing.


• Their center of gravity is high. Combined with their lack of balancing skills when bending, they are prone to falling when leaning or reaching over the water.


• They lack the awareness to master water safety skills such as survival floatation, safe poolside behavior or energy conservation swimming.


• Toddlers drown silently without a splash or a scream. They simply sink rapidly and quietly to the bottom of the pool.


• To prevent brain damage, toddlers must be resuscitated within 3 minutes after breathing and heartbeat stop.

** Always ensure that toddlers and children are directly and constantly supervised in or around the pool