Tread safely in the water
Pools, sprinklers, lakes — just about any body of water is a welcome refuge from the heat. they are also danger zones. When children are near water, they must be supervised.
With the growing popularity of garden ponds, remember that young children can drown in the smallest amount of water — even a bucket. If you or your neighbors have a garden pond, make sure it is fenced off to keep wandering children from falling in.
When you’re at the pool, don’t rely solely on the lifeguards. Until your children are proficient swimmers, make sure they are always under the watchful eye of a responsible adult. Pools can be hectic places, and lifeguards are not capable of watching every child at every moment.
If you’re at the beach, make sure you stay in designated swimming areas and keep a close eye on dangerous surf. Children can easily be pulled under by a wave or strong undertow.
When boating, make sure everyone is wearing a properly fitted life jacket. the life jacket will be snug, and your child will probably complain, but do not relent.
Enroll your child in swimming lessons. Learning to swim is a valuable skill that can develop into participation in competitive swimming, become an excellent exercise option or simply provide for a lifetime of fun, safe water experiences.
For information, please call our Health Access Line at 314-ANTHONY (268-4669) or 800-554-9550 or visit find a physician online.
At St. Anthony's, our vision is to be the area's premier health care organization
— and your first choice for health care services.