Alarming Drowning Statistics

The Dallas Morning News reports on the alarming statistic that drowning is the second leading cause of death that is injury related in children ages 1 to 14. Just why is the statistic so high?

Pools are more accessible to children. Parents have a false sense of security about their ability to keep track of youngsters. And they are under the mistaken impression that children splash and scream when they are struggling, when actually they slip under the water noiselessly, experts said.

“In home pools, people get really comfortable with their surroundings, and so you kind of let your guard down a little bit,” said Claudia Romo, a health educator at Children’s Medical Center.

The Children’s Medical Center in Dallas has partnered with the YMCA and the American Red Cross to teach parents about the safety issues surrounding their children and water accidents known as the “Know Before You Go” program. If you live in the area, check with any of those organizations to inquire about participating.