Page 18 - Summer 2024 Bulletin

Physician Family Alliance (continued)
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Secure Your Pool: Prevent unsupervised access to pool areas with proper barriers and self-latching gates. Guide- lines exist for effective pool fencing – make sure yours is up to par. Self-latching gates should close even when left only slightly ajar. If yours doesn’t, it should be adjusted. It’s a common misconception that having pool alarms or extra fencing will result in a sense of false security, but research indicates otherwise. Safety is best in LAYERS. The more safeguards, the better.
Reduce Temptation: Keep toys and floats stored out of and away from the pool when not in use. Children may find the allure of a favorite toy or pool float too tempting to resist.
No Steps to Danger: Be sure that no furniture or other objects children may climb are stored near pool fences – they may serve as an unintentional “ladder,” for kids to find their way up and over a pool fence.
Swim Lessons: Enroll children in early swim lessons! Many programs offer lessons starting in infancy. Yes, it’s
time-consuming, and yes, young kids may not be too enthused at first. But strong swimming skills can be life- saving.
6. CPR Training: The physician in your family most assur- edly has CPR skills, but others should too. Community classes are available to learn these skills, which should be practiced often.
7. Life Jackets: Ensure children wear U.S. Coast Guard- approved life jackets during water activities, particularly when boating.
8. Safety Education: Educate children about water safety rules, including never swimming alone. Be sure to edu- cate babysitters or other caregivers in your home about water safety too. Remind them often: if you can’t find a kid, check the pool first.
Let’s unite in prioritizing water safety, ensuring our families can enjoy a summer filled with cherished memories and peace of mind. Remember, drowning is preventable, and it starts with us.
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HCMA BULLETIN, Vol 70, No. 1 – Summer 2024