4 Ways for Kids to Avoid Drowning

"It was just one second; I only walked inside for a minute.”

These words remind me that a minute changes everything. It's the bitter pill that comes with the magic and beauty of summertime. There are tragic moments potentially lingering in the shadows if we do not continue to be aware.

I've worked for several years in the past as pediatrician in the emergency room over the summer holidays. In the back of my mind, I always keep a level of caution and respect for water. I think because of the heart break I have seen, I constantly caution other parents and friends, remind myself as well to be alert. It is hard to ever escape the tearful words of some of my parents of near drowning patients.

Imagine you are a teen who overestimates their capacity to swim; the adults in your group are all engrossed in their own social activity. You decide to be daring with your friends and go out deep into a lake. However, you are not a good swimmer, and not many of your friends are either. As you swim you are caught in an undercurrent, you flail, and you struggle. Your best friend who also isn't a strong swimmer rushes further out to save you. You survive, and he's taken away by the current to his death.

This happens.

There is no way to retract the pain. Every adult and older child in these scenarios is plagued with guilt. So what's the best strategy? Avoid water all together? Say no to every pool party invitation, lake boat ride, or trip? That's not a realistic approach to the summer. Children and even adults inevitably find their way to the water, whether they can swim or not. So please remember these four basic tips as we reach the dog days of summer.

1. Have your children take swimming lessons. Children of all ages need know how to at least float and be safe in the water. This does not mean you need to raise the next Michael Phelps but, have them understand the basics. Older kids should not be forgotten when it's time for swim lessons. Look for classes that are age appropriate at your local community pools, youth centers, universities. Kids who have an understanding of how to swim are less likely to drown.

2. Talk to your kids about water safety. Talk to all your children about it, even the older ones who may be seem old enough to know better. Remind them to keep flotation devices on when boating for example, even if you are a strong swimmer. Remind them to never ever underestimate a strong river current, wave, or rip tide. Teach them not to dive into rivers or creeks. At the beach do not swim too far away from the shore.

3. Parents keep a watchful eye. This is true for all your children. Be present for time in the water, or make sure another trusted adult is there. With your young children if they are in the water you should be as well. Try and remain an arm’s length away at most even if they are using floatation devices. Do not let older children swim beyond their capabilities. Clearly assign an adult to watch children in water. Rotate this responsibility so that people can have a break, take calls, read a magazine or book, or check texts. Just a brief moment of distraction can make a difference. Make sure it is very clear who is responsible for kids in the water.

4. Parents and Caregivers Learn CPR. I encourage all parents to know basic CPR. The very basic tools you learn will teach you a technique that may make the difference between life and death for your child, or other children around you. CPR courses are offered in a wide variety of places, but check the American Heart Association website for locations near you. In medicine we often talk about oxygen and its extreme importance for brain function. A few minutes of not breathing which brings in oxygen to your brain can severely damage the brain. Those initial rescue breaths and chest compressions you give after pulling a child out of the water can make a huge difference.

Keeping these basic tips in mind can make your summer water time a little safer. Remember the beauty of the season, enjoy these special moments with loved ones, and have fun. Do not operate in fear but, be alert. I encourage parents to also visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website healthychildren.org which has a lot of detailed information about water and summer safety. Talk with your child's pediatrician about any specific safety concerns you have.

Lastly but most importantly not forget those children and families who have passed or have had their lives significantly affected by drowning injuries.