By Holly Alway
Trinity Health Muskegon

The weather is warming up soon, the sweltering Michigan heat will drive large groups of people to the water. Cooling off in the lake or pool is a favorite childhood pastime during Michigan summers, but it comes with its fair share of risks.

The American Red Cross says that drowning is the top cause of death for kids under 4 years old. It is the second-leading cause of death for children aged 5 to 14, just after car accidents. There are things, however, that parents can do to lessen that danger, including knowing where their child is most at risk based on how old they are.

Newborn to 1 year old

Children under the age of 1 are most at risk of drowning at home. This comes mostly from bathtubs, but that’s not the only danger around the home.

Buckets, wells, septic tanks, decorative ponds and toilets all pose a drowning risk to infants. Young children can drown in as little as 1 inch of water.

Parents should empty tubs, buckets, containers and kiddie pools immediately after use. Store them upside down and out of reach.

The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that whenever a toddler is in or near water, give them undivided attention. It's important to avoid things that make it hard to stay focused. This includes using a cell-phone, doing yard work or drinking alcohol. The AAP recommends using “touch supervision,” staying within arm’s length, whether it’s bath or swim time.

1 to 5 years old

For children younger than 5, most drowning deaths happen in home pools or hot tubs. Family, friends or relatives usually own these. One adult should always be monitoring the pool when children are present, and that adult should have no distractions, such as phones or books. Additionally, it’s a good idea to install fences around home pools with self-closing and self-latching gates.

5 to 17 years old

Children over the age of 5 are more likely to drown in natural water, such as a pond, lake or river. Kids in this age group are more likely to know how to swim, but that can lead to overconfidence in unpredictable open waters.

Experts suggest talking to kids about the differences between swimming in a pool and swimming in natural water. This includes limited visibility, depth, uneven surfaces, currents and undertow.

When boating or doing other water activities, always make sure children wear a life jacket. It should fit their age and weight. Also, always look for posted warnings and signs that may indicate whether swimming conditions are suitable. Many beaches use red flag warnings to show conditions are too dangerous for swimming.

Other tips and resources

For an extra layer of safety, experts urge parents to learn CPR and basic water rescue skills, such as Reach, Throw, Don’t Go.  Swim lessons are also recommended. Recent studies show that swim lessons can lower the risk of drowning for all kids. This is especially true for kids ages 1-4. Find out more about when to start your child in swim lessons.

Trinity Health Muskegon’s Injury Prevention program offers life jackets that residents may borrow. This service is available at most public beaches. Children should always wear life jackets when in, on, or near natural bodies of water.

If you are interested in volunteering to help maintain the life jackets and rescue board this summer, email alwayh@trinity-health.org.

— Holly Alway, MTSA, is the injury prevention coordinator for Trinity Health Muskegon.