Children Dying by Drowning in DFW is a Major Concern

By Nisie

A backyard pool is meant for fun, laughter, and memories—but in Tarrant County, it can also become the scene of tragedy in seconds. Tarrant County is among the top three regions in Texas for accidental deaths by drowning. There are some instances of drownings in lakes or other natural bodies of water, but the leading factor is backyard swimming pools. Families in Tarrant County must take the risks of having a pool seriously, or they could face an unspeakable tragedy. 

                 Some of the tips below seem like common sense, but when a family becomes comfortable around the pool, it may be easy to put their guard down. Or maybe, as a parent or guardian, you are not a swimmer but want to let your child enjoy the pool. According to the Fort Worth Drowning Prevention Coalition, these are the best ways to keep your family safe this summer.

1. Supervise Children: Always watch children in or near water, and never leave them unattended.

Even if a lifeguard is present, parents and caregivers should still take the responsibility of being a designated Water Watcher. When any lifeguard chair is empty, the remaining lifeguards may not be able to see the entire pool, and when lifeguards are seated in low chairs, their view can be blocked by patrons in the pool.

2. Learn to Swim: Teach children how to swim.

Swimming is not only fun, but it’s a lifesaving skill. Enroll children in swimming lessons; many free or reduced-cost options are available from your local YMCA, USA Swimming chapter, or Parks and Recreation Department.

3. Know Your Drains: Teach children to stay away from drains.

Do not play or swim near drains or suction outlets, especially in spas and shallow pools, and never enter a pool or spa with a loose, broken, or missing drain cover. Children’s hair, limbs, jewelry, or bathing suits can get stuck in a drain or suction opening. When using a spa, be sure to locate the emergency vacuum shutoff before getting in the water.

4. Ensure Compliance: Ensure all pools and spas have compliant drain covers.

Virginia Graeme Baker, after whom the Pool and Spa Safety Act is named, died from drowning due to a suction entrapment from a faulty drain cover. All public pools and spas must have drain grates or covers that meet safety standards to avoid incidents like the one that took Graeme’s life. Powerful suction from a pool or spa drain can even trap an adult.

5. Install Safety Devices: Install barriers, covers, and alarms.

Proper fences, barriers, alarms, and covers can be lifesaving devices. A fence at least 4 feet high should surround the pool or spa on all sides and be climb-resistant for children. The water should only be accessible through a self-closing, self-latching gate. Teach children to never try to climb over the gate or fence. Install a door alarm from the house to the pool area, and keep pool and spa covers in working order.

6. Get Certified: Know how to perform CPR on children and adults.

Often, bystanders are the first to aid a drowning victim, so learning CPR can help save a life. And once you’re CPR certified, make sure to keep your certification current. CPR classes are available at many hospitals and community centers, or by contacting the American Red Cross.

This year, Fort Worth has already seen a tragic drowning death. On January 5, a 6-year-old drowned in the family pool. There have been no updates on the investigation, but many speculate it was another tragic drowning accident. Texas summers can be extremely dangerous for children. Whether it is a child accidentally drowning while swimming or being accidentally left in a car unattended, the consequences can be deadly. 

Drowning is preventable. As summer fun and family vacations begin, let’s not forget the responsibilities that come with the fun. Every parent, caregiver, and child can play a role in keeping each other safe. By staying vigilant, learning lifesaving skills, and following proven safety steps, we can make sure the only memories made this summer are good ones.