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Fire department offers timely water safety reminders

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 through 4
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
(File photo)

FISHERS, Ind. — It's a busy weekend for swimming pools, and the forecast of continued hot, humid weather means it will likely stay busy.

After a near-drowning in the community recently, the Fishers Fire Department issued a reminder about pool safety and the dangers young swimmers face, in particular.

In a post on social media, FFD said:

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 and the 2nd leading cause of injury death for children ages 5-9. Anywhere there is water, there is a danger of a child drowning. Drowning can occur very quickly and in just inches of water. Drowning is silent. Even if a child knows how to swim in a pool, he might not be prepared for open water. Knowing CPR can save a life.

Warning signs of dry drowning:

  • Increased “work of breathing” (rapid shallow breathing, nostril flaring, you can see between the child’s ribs or the gap above collarbone when they breathe)
  • Persistent coughing or coughing associated with increase work of breathing
  • Sleepiness
  • Forgetfulness or change in behavior
  • Throwing up

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This evening, there was a near drowning of a small child in a neighb... orhood pool. While we keep this child in our thoughts and prayers for recovery, we also keep our community in those thoughts and urge you to take heed. It happens in moments.

Any child pulled from the pool needs medical attention.

Watch children closely at all times. This means the adult is not reading or talking on the phone.

An adult should be within an arm’s reach of infants, toddlers and weak swimmers.

Water safety measures include PFDs and fencing around pools.

Never leave standing water where a child can get into it.

Drain wading pools and buckets immediately after use.

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