The Shocking Statistics Regarding Child Drowning Incidents

It’s no secret that children have a tendency to get themselves into trouble, which can sometimes spell disaster for them as well as their families. Swimming pool drownings are unfortunately one of the most common examples of this, and parents everywhere should be aware of the potential risks that may lead to a drowning incident.

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Before we review some of these figures, we should first mention that Van Law Firm has helped to drown victims and their families get both the treatment and compensation they deserve for nearly ten years now, and we are always looking to do more to help the communities we serve. Call our location nearest you today to learn more. 

The Numbers Behind Child Drownings 

Child drownings may seem like an obscure and distant danger, but the data would suggest otherwise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drownings are the single biggest cause of accidental deaths in children age 4 and younger. In addition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also reports that there are just under 400 deaths a year from people drowning in pools and spas. 

Here are just a few statistics from recent years regarding drownings and other swimming pool-related incidents among young children: 

• From 2015 to 2017, there were just under 6500 children aged 15 or younger who were treated for pool-related injuries.
• During that same time period, children younger than 5 accounted for 73 percent of all nonfatal pool-related injuries. 
• As for the fatal injuries, males under 15 were shown to be twice as likely to be involved in a fatal drowning accident than females. 
• Over 75 percent of fatal drownings in children 15 or younger occurred at private pools (either at home or another residence). 
• A whopping 67 percent of those fatal incidents involved children ages 1-3. 
• As far as the type of pool, 74 percent of drowning deaths occurred in in-ground pools, 17 percent in above-ground pools, and 9 percent in portable (kiddie) pools. 

Take the Steps Needed to Protect Your Child 

Oftentimes, these disastrous drowning accidents can be avoided with a little bit of precaution and prudence. All parents should consider the following steps to keep their children safe: 

• Never leave your child unattended while swimming. 
• If they are not strong swimmers, have them stay in shallow water or wear life preservers.
• Never allow your children to swim at another residence with people you do not know or trust.
• If you have a pool, make sure to install of the necessary safety equipment and barriers to prevent children from accessing it when they shouldn’t. 

Contact Swimming Pool Drowning Attorneys Today 

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If your child has been involved in a drowning or other swimming pool-related incident, you will need to act fast in order to preserve the evidence necessary to prove your case. Van Law Firm has helped countless families recover compensation for injuries sustained by their children, and we’re ready to help you too. Call our office nearest you today to get started.