Every year between 3,500 and 4,000 people fatally drown in America.  Among children, drowning ranks second only to auto accidents.  What few people realize is that most drownings are preventable.

 

“Layers of protection” are important when preventing drowning.  Barrier fences with a self latching gate represents an important and required layer of protection.  Others include pool and door alarms,  and lifesaving buoys strategically placed.  Pools with deep ends should have a safety float line permanently attached to either side of the pool.

 

In regards to children, the most important layer of protection is close and constant adult supervision.  Drowning is usually silent and often without a sign of struggle.