With summer comes pool parties and beach outings, and of course, the need for preparedness by teaching children to swim to prevent drownings.
Drowning rates in the U.S. are rising, especially among children and older adults, with a 28% increase in deaths from 2019 to 2022 among children ages 1 to 4. Males and certain racial groups, including American Indian and Black individuals, have higher drowning rates.
CPR is vital in drowning situations to restore oxygen to the brain. All caregivers should learn CPR, as even children aged 11 or 12 can perform it effectively. However, a significant number of adults—40 million—cannot swim, and many have never taken lessons, with Black adults reporting the highest rates of non-swimming.
Water safety is essential, even for non-swimmers. Teaching adults how to react if they accidentally fall into water and simply being aware of environmental conditions are a great starting point.
Basic CPR techniques include giving rescue breaths after compressions, especially for children, since their cardiac arrests often stem from respiratory issues. In drowning cases, it’s critical to call 911 immediately and begin CPR if the person is unresponsive.
To keep children safe around water, parents should remain vigilant and know the location of safety equipment. Life jackets are recommended for both adults and children but should not be replaced by inflatable toys. Ford encourages swim classes for children and learning CPR basics from healthcare providers.
Also, learn more about water safety for fishing.
Source: What to know about water safety and CPR this summer | American Heart Association