McLeod Safe Kids Pee Dee/Coastal Reminds the Public of the Importance of "Water Watchers"

McLEOD REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 11 JUNE 2014

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children. Home swimming pools are the most common place for a child younger than age five to drown. Approximately 400 children age 14 and younger drown each year in pools and spas, and most children were being watched by an adult just before they drowned.

McLeod Safe Kids Pee Dee/Coastal reminds families to take caution during Water Safety Month (June) as well as year-round with these safety tips.

Always Supervise

· Always watch children when they are in or near water – never leave children alone.

· Inexperienced swimmers should be within an adult’s reach when they are in the water.

· Have designated "water watchers" – responsible adults who are only focused on supervising children.

·  If a child is missing, check the water first. Have a phone close by in case there is an emergency.  

For more information on preventing childhood injury, please call McLeod Safe Kids Pee Dee/Coastal at (843) 777-5021 to speak to an Injury Prevention Specialist. You can also visit www.McLeodSafeKids.org or find the group on Facebook under McLeod Safe Kids.

McLeod Safe Kids Pee Dee/Coastal is funded in part by the McLeod Health Foundation.