As child care professionals in the Perth area, we feel that it is our responsibility to help look after children to keep them safe and sound. To us, nothing is more tragic than hearing about the death of a child. For children between the ages of one and five, drowning is the most common cause of death.
Drownings can happen in the twinkling of an eye, so it is extremely important to always observe water safety when children are present. Babies are top heavy and can fall over easily. If they fall over in water, even shallow water, the results can be fatal. Children have drowned in water features, fish ponds, water bowls for pets and even nappy buckets.
Swim Australia recommends a four-layer bracket of protection for children around water.
Awareness
Awareness is the most important and effective water safety tool for parents when their children are around water. In drowning deaths of toddlers, it is estimated that 70% are due to a lack of supervision. Here are the four pillars of adequate supervision.
- Constant visual contact
- Be within arm’s reach of any child under five and any non-swimmer
- Be ready to respond in an instant
- Do not be distracted by phones, doorbells, etc.
Security Barriers
Make sure your toddlers can’t get into a pool when they are not supervised. Empty small pools when finished. Keep a childproof fence around a large pool. Make sure they can’t move a chair or table to climb a fence into the pool.
Swimming Skills
Get swimming lessons for your child. Children under five are taught familiarisation, confidence and basic swimming strokes. It can save their lives.
Be Vigilant and Prepared
Every second counts if your child suddenly disappears under the water. The sooner you know something’s wrong, the faster you can help your child. Learn CPR and keep a phone close by.
Call Cuddles Childcare Centres to Learn More
If you want to learn more or you are interested in a great child care centre in the Perth area, call your nearest Cuddles Childcare Centre today.
Leave a Reply