3-year-old Girl’s Drowning Brings Attention to Swimming Pool Safety
The drowning death of 3-year-old Natalie Bobadilla is a tragic reminder about the importance of pool safety, San Bernardino County fire officials say. According to a news report in The San Bernardino County Sun, the swimming pool accident occurred in the 14000 block of Palmyra way in Adelanto. Natalie was found at the bottom of her family’s pool. The child’s parents tried to administer CPR when paramedics arrived. The girl was transported to an area hospital where she died.
Swimming Pool Accident Statistics
According to the San Bernardino County Fire Department, at least 15 incidents of water submersions, including four fatal incidents, have occurred just this year in the county. Last year, 55 submersion incidents were reported, with nine leading to death. The majority of the submersions, 37, involved children. Drowning is the number one killer of kids between the ages of 0 and 4 in the state of California.
Adult Supervision is Key to Prevention
Officials say that adult supervision is the key to preventing child drowning deaths. It is important that adults are within arms reach of the child. Only then are they ready to react if the child falls into the pool or off the diving board. It is a common misconception that drowning is a noisy event. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Do not expect to hear screaming or splashing before a drowning. It could happen very silently and within a matter of seconds. All it takes is 2 inches of water to cover a child’s mouth and nose.
Swimming pool accidents can be prevented by:
• Installing fencing at least 5 feet high equipped with self-closing, self-latching gates.
• Enroll young children in swimming lessons.
• Always provide adult supervision, even if the children know how to swim.
• Keep rescue equipment, a cell phone and emergency numbers by the pool.
• Anyone who watches children should learn CPR.
• Remove toys from in and around the pool when it is not in use.
Liability Issues
If your child has been injured in a swimming pool accident, it would be in your best interest to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who has handled similar cases. If a child has been injured on your watch or on your property, you could be held financially liable for the injuries, damages or losses. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.