Drowning facts and tips

(WTNH) -- With summer upon us, many folks are heading to the water to stay cool in the heat. However here are some things to consider before jumping in the deep end.

Drowning is a leading cause of death among children, including infants and toddlers, according to www.healthychildren.org . The website says most infant drownings occur in bathtubs and buckets, however toddlers between 1 and 4-years-old most commonly drown in swimming pools, ponds, rivers, and lakes.

Children can drown in just one inch of water.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , about ten people die every day from unintentional drowning; two are children under the age of 14. That makes drowning fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury death in the United States.

Studies show that 80% of drowning victims are men and African-Americans are more likely to drown than people who are white. (Source: CDC )

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics , children ages 1 to 4 may be at a lower risk of drowning if they have had some formal swimming instruction.

The AAP also had these tips to keep in mind:

• Floaties are not a substitute for approved life vests
• Swim programs should never be seen as “drown proofing” a child of any age.
• Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm’s length
• Children should be taught about rip tides and what to do if they are caught in one

According to the News-Times , severe brain damage can occur if a person goes four minutes without oxygen. That is why lifeguards are trained on CPR procedures. Parents are also encouraged to learn CPR. Learn more at the American Red Cross.