MAY IS DROWNING PREVENTION MONTH

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Source:  City of La Mesa

May 26, 2017 (La Mesa) - May is Drowning Prevention Month in the City of La Mesa, and as the Memorial Day weekend approaches, the community is reminded to be safe in and around water.  

According to the World Health Organization, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury and death worldwide. Children, males, and individuals with increased access to water are most at risk of drowning.  In addition, the Center for Disease Control and Injury Prevention states that children ages 1 to 4 have the highest drowning rate, with most of those drownings occurring in home swimming pools and during the months of May to August.  

Drowning deaths and aquatic injuries can be prevented by understanding that all water has risk. A three-pronged approach to drowning prevention called “Safer Water, Safer People and Safer Response” includes water safety skills, life vests, swim lessons, active adult supervision, and training on how to react with quick rescue and CPR with rescue breathing for drowning victims.  

Memorial Day weekend often equates to barbecues and pool parties, but make sure someone is designated to watch the kids while they play and swim in the backyard pool.  Anyone that plans to host or attend parties that include backyard pools or other water sources, please designate an adult as the “Water Watcher”.  Pick up your free “Water Watcher” tags at La Mesa Municipal Pool, 5100 Memorial Drive or at any of the eight (8) Heartland Fire stations in La Mesa, El Cajon or Lemon Grove. For more information call 619.667.1494.  Drowning is preventable!


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