FILE - Swimmers try to stay cool in near 100 degree temperatures at Red Oaks Waterpark in Madison Heights, Mich., June 28, 2012. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4. It's also the second leading cause of unintentional death for those ages 5 to 14. – With school out for the summer and temperatures rising across the country, many families will visit the beach, lake or local swimming pool.
Many children who drowned at home did so during times they were not expected to be in the water, according to the. In some cases, children were out of sight for less than five minutes and in the care of one or both parents when they slipped into the pool and drowned, the agency said. While at the pool or around water, it's advisable to avoid distractions. Put away phones, books and magazines, because drowning is often silent and can happen in less than five minutes.
But even with those safety elements, experts say it’s a good practice to check the drains and devices before children get into a pool.“Make sure that you don’t overestimate your abilities,” Barnickel said. “Know your limits.”