Florida Infant Drowning Rate Highest in U.S.: Swimming Pool Accidents to Blame
Florida's infant death rate due to drowning is double the rate as compared to other states in the nation. Swimming pool accidents account for the majority of infant drowning deaths here in Florida.
With so many grandparents returning to Florida to spend the winter, pediatricians want to remind seniors tending to their beloved grandchildren to be especially aware of hazards that could cause small children to have slip and fall accidents in and around swimming pools.
Pediatricians also recommend that Florida parents, grandparents, and caregivers learn infant CPR, as nonfatal drowning accidents can still cause brain damage in developing children, when the brain is deprived of oxygen.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is behind a new law that went into effect Dec. 19, 2008 designed to increase swimming pool safety measures at all public pools and spas. The law pertains to drain covers and other pool and spa mechanisms that can cause children to become trapped under water. Nationally, drowning is the second-leading cause of accidental death for children ages one to 14.
As residents of the Sunshine State as well as Florida swimming pool accident lawyers, we can't stress swimming pool safety enough -- particularly when children are in the picture. Please be aware of consumer safety tips for swimming pool owners and check your pool safety equipment regularly.
Florida has highest infant drowning rate
NBC2 News Online Nov. 23, 2008
New pool safety law goes into effect this holiday season
ConsumerReports.org Nov. 24, 2008
Related Web Resource
American Academy of Pediatrics: Pool Safety for Children
