Child safety advocates say summer is a great time to get outside and play – but they also warn it’s a time to be careful, especially around water.
Hundreds of children drown each year across the United States, and Poshard Foundation for Abused Children co-founder Glenn Poshard says keeping your focus on your children is important.
“Most drowning victims are young, they’re being watched by parents, their deaths or injuries happen in familiar surroundings. Their deaths and injuries happen very quickly – in less time than it would take you to answer a cell phone call.”
Carbondale Park District Executive Director Kathy Renfro says getting kids used to the water – and teaching them safety skills – can go a long way at preventing drowning.
“Knowledge is a powerful tool, and we’re really in a unique situation. We can provide education in a recreational setting.”
May is drowning prevention awareness month. Experts say children can drown in any amount of water, so it’s important to stay focused when they’re getting outside to have some fun at the pool, lake, river, or anything that involves water.
