Splash Into Safety in Summer 2004 [1]
On Thursday, County and Local officials reminded Los Angeles County residents to be careful this summer, emphasizing a “drown proof” home to themselves and their children.
“Each year throughout Los Angeles County nearly 100 people lost their life in
drowning incidents and one-third of these victims are children.
Over half of these tragic incidents occur in backyard pools and could have been prevented”, said Assistant Fire Chief Matt Gil, Los Angeles County Fire Department.
“While drowning deaths among children occur year round in Los Angeles County, 70% of these deaths occur during summer months with 44% occurring in private pools”, said Jim M. Decarli, Department of Health Services.
“Of all infant and toddler drowning deaths 88% occur in private pools.”
In partnership with LA County’s department of Health Services/Safe Kids LA, a national SAFE KIDS study showed that nine out of ten children who have drowned, were being supervised by an adult.
“Having thousands of swimming pools in our community, we urge you to be smart when you and your family enjoy your pool this summer”, said Mayor Bob Kellar, City of Santa Clarita. “Encouraging the use of safety equipment, constant supervision of children and emergency procedures, the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s 5 step program is a vital resource for every parent in our Santa Clarita Valley communities,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich. ”By using caution and taking the extra steps to improve our families’ pool safety, we can avoid tragedy and still enjoy our swimming pools this summer.”
Water Awareness Training For Children In The Home program (W.A.T.C.H.) is a 5 step program that can help prevent drowning. To find out more about a Water-Hazard-Safety-Checklist, visit our website at www.lacofd.org [3].
You may also contact regional Public Information Officer Mike McCormick at 661/286-2792 or the Los Angeles County, Department of Health Services Injury and Violence Prevention Program at (213) 351-7888.