Drowning Accidents in Swimming Pools
Due to Florida’s many waterways and nearly endless coastline, drowning accidents are common in the state. In 2013, Florida saw a rate of 7.54 children per 100,000 under the age of four become the victims of drowning.
It is not just drowning in lakes, streams, and the ocean that kills children and adults. Many Florida homes are equipped with swimming pools in their backyards. According to research, there are just under 400,000 swimming pools in the state of Florida, and these refreshing splash zones can become the cause of death for many.
Community Swimming Pools
Community swimming pools like those at apartment complexes and in neighborhoods come with their own problems. Many of these swimming pools are not patrolled by lifeguards or a supervisor who can help if a child or adult is in danger.
In June of 2017, a 12-year-old Florida boy drowned in a swimming pool at a condominium in Jacksonville. Despite adults being there to help pull him out and attempting CPR, the child died from his drowning-related injuries.
Water Activities Prove Deadly
It is not just swimming that can be deadly and cause drowning. Any water-based activity can become deadly, and that includes fishing. In April of 2016, a family of three was found washed ashore in Florida after a fishing trip went wrong. The family’s boat sank during the fishing trip killing three, including a 9-year-old boy.
How to Prevent Drowning Accidents
Between 2005 and 2014, there were more than 3,500 unintentional drowning deaths in the United States. That does not include the 332 people per year that died of boating accidents during that same timeframe. With so many deaths that could have been prevented, how do people prevent drowning deaths from occurring?
- The simplest way to prevent drowning is by supervision. An adult who can swim should be watching those young people who are playing in the water. Adults should not engage in any other activities while supervising.
- Anyone who has young children should get trained in CPR. In fact, anyone who spends a lot of time around water should get certified in the lifesaving technique.
- Anyone going swimming should swim with a friend or partner who can watch out for them.
- If you do not already know how to swim and you are around water often, you must learn. It could save your life.
- Avoid drinking alcohol if you are on the water or supervising those splashing in it.
- If you are going fishing, it is important to be aware of the weather.
Lulich Attorneys & Consultants
If you have lost a loved one due to a drowning accident, Lulich Attorneys & Consultants can help. Visit our page on drowning accidents to see how we can help you. Lulich Attorneys & Consultants can help you with all your personal injury law needs.