Tips for Staying Safe in Swimming Pools
South Florida’s near-perfect weather makes swimming the ideal outdoor activity. Unfortunately, this favorite pastime can turn deadly for young kids who are not proficient swimmers.
At Mase Mebane Seitz, we represent individuals who have been injured or killed in preventable water accidents. Our lawyers have decades of combined experience obtaining compensation for injury victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been involved in a swimming or boating accident, contact our office at (305) 602-4824 to schedule a free consultation.
Before you get in the pool, take a few moments to review these statistics and safety tips:
Drowning Statistics in Florida and the U.S.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of death for children. It is the second leading cause of unintentional injury for children ages 1-14. On average, there are 3,960 fatal unintentional drownings annually, approximately 11 deaths per day. Additionally, there are an estimated 8,080 nonfatal drownings annually. Nonfatal drownings can cause serious health problems, including brain damage and disabilities.
Florida saw a record-high number of fatal drownings in 2021. As reported by the Tampa Bay Times, 98 children ages 18 and under died in drownings in the state. The number represents a 42% increase from the previous year. Data showed that counties reported more drownings in “hotels and vacation rental homes or gatherings like neighborhood pool parties.”
Swimming Pool Safety
It is a commonly held belief that drownings happen somewhere other than the backyard, but in fact, a large number of childhood deaths occur in swimming pools. Advocates encourage parents to enroll their kids in swim lessons and teach them how to be water safe.
The Tampa Bay Times also suggests these pool safety tips:
- Installing a fence around the pool that has a lock and self-closing gate;
- Putting in door alarms that alert adults if a door has been opened, particularly if the home is near a body of water;
- Ensuring there is proper drainage for any water;
- Always having adult supervision;
- Enrolling in formal swimming lessons; and
- Learning CPR.
By following these simple safety steps, countless lives can be saved each year. Whether you are at a neighbor’s pool or taking a boat out for the day, the more you know about water safety, the better. If you are involved in a swimming or boating accident, it is recommended that you consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Contact Our Office for a Free Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one are injured on the water, contact our office at (305) 602-4824 for a free consultation. Let us help you determine who can be held liable for your injuries and how to pursue a claim for damages. You might be entitled to compensation for your losses.
At Mase Mebane Seitz, we will fight for you and your family to receive the largest recovery possible. Don’t just settle. Call now to get the justice you need and deserve.