While schools are back in session, the summer heat is still in full force – which means increased distractions while still cooling off in the pool. The month of August is dedicated to help remind people about the impact of drownings.
Locally, August was declared Drowning Impact Awareness Month at the Aug. 2 Queen Creek Town Council meeting and the Queen Creek Fire and Medical Department (QCFMD) wants to refresh residents on the ABCDs of water safety.
According to the Children’s Safety Zone, there were 143 water related incidents in Maricopa and Pinal counties in 2022, and sadly, 60 water related deaths, including 15 pediatric drownings. Drowning is a top cause of injury-related death for children in Arizona, especially for children 5 and under (pediatric).
Drowning is preventable, which is why QCFMD encourages all residents to follow the ABCDs of water safety: Adult supervision, Barriers between children and water, Classes in CPR for adults and swim lessons for children, and Devices (lifejackets, hooks, etc.) near water.
In addition to the ABCDs of water safety, QCFMD provides the following tips:
- Look in the pool first. Every second counts when an individual is drowning, and precious time is often wasted looking elsewhere. Always look for missing individuals, especially children in the pool or spa first.
- Drowning is silent. Many people believe they will hear someone drowning because the individual will be screaming or splashing. However, drowning is silent with the individual unable to make noise.
If you find someone in any source of water:
- Yell for help and pull the person out of the water.
- Call 911 immediately!
- Begin CPR if you are trained.
- If you are not trained to administer CPR, follow the instructions from the 911 operator until help arrives.
For more information about QCFMD, or for additional safety tips, visit QueenCreekAZ.gov/fire.
