First Responders Warn Parents Of Swimming Dangers Ahead Of Memorial Day

The State Department of Health says the leading cause of death for children between the ages of one and four is drowning, so before this Memorial Day, firefighters say to be cautious before letting your child go swimming.

“Even if they are strong swimmer parents, please put a lifejacket on your kiddos on your kid. Please get a Coast Guard Approved Life Jacket and put it on them,” said Capt—Scott Douglas, with the Oklahoma City Fire Department.

Firefighters and the Oklahoma State Department of Health warn parents before pool season.

OSDH says the most drowning deaths are between May and August.

They say drowning is silent and can happen in less than two inches of water. Adding that this is why, so often, people are not aware that someone’s drowning until it is too late.

The Department of Health always says to provide close supervision, teach children basic water safety, install 4-sided fencing around pools, and even if a child has swimming lessons, a parent should always be watching.

OSDH says to make sure your kids jump into a shower before getting into the pool to prevent them from getting a swimming-related illness.