Prince William families are being reminded to use caution when heading to water parks, pools, spas, and other recreational areas this summer.
Drowning is among the top five causes of death for children who are between 1 and 14 years old, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue (PWCDFR) has released a few water safety tips that could prevent drowning and water-related injuries.
Children should not be left unsupervised or shouldn’t be allowed to play underwater in a pool or spa, according to PWCFR Chief Kevin McGee.
Residents should not swim after dark or in muddy waters, or dive into shallow areas.
They also shouldn’t swim alone or consume alcohol when supervising children.
McGee also advises community members to know where the pump cutoff switch for a hot tub or spa is located and to learn CPR.
To learn more information, visit the WHO, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Safe Kids Worldwide, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Pool or Spa Submersion’s 2017 report.
