20 seconds is all it takes. Always keep your eyes on children around water.
Water provides great fun for children, but leaving them around water without adult supervision is dangerous.
Most fatal drownings occur at home, including backyard swimming pools, bathtubs and dams. Often a lack of supervision combined with inadequate safety barriers around the pool or outdoor spa are found to be a contributing factor to the child’s death. In some cases, a climbing point allowed for easy access to the swimming pool.
For children that survive drowning incidents, many are hospitalised and can be left with permanent disabilities.
Make sure to restrict children's access to water and always keep them within arm's reach when around water. Remember, 20 seconds is all it takes.
Always keep your eyes on children around water.
Water safety tips for parents and carers
- Keep children under five years within arm's reach. Children under 10 years should always be in sight.
- Make a supervision plan so there is always an adult actively supervising children around water during gatherings or parties.
- Restrict children’s access to water by installing fencing around pools and spas and having a child safe play area.
- Ensure your child learns to swim.
- Learn CPR and First Aid.
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