Arizona Ranks High In Number Of Fatally Drownings This Summer

Arizona is among the states with the highest number of drownings. From Memorial Day through Labor Day 2017, at least 163 children younger than age 15 fatally drowned in swimming pools or spas, according to media reports compiled by the USA Swimming Foundation.

Of the 163 reports, 112 of the victims — nearly 70 percent — were children younger than age five.

During the same timeframe in 2016, 205 children younger than age 15 drowned in swimming pools or spas, according to media reports. Of the 205 reports, 140 of the victims — nearly 70 percent — were children younger than age five.

“Each one of these deaths is a tragedy, which serves as a sobering reminder of how dangerous water can be for young children,” said Ann Marie Buerkle, Acting Chairman, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. “Even though summer is over and children are back in school, pools are still open in warm weather states and indoor swim parks. I encourage all families to Pool Safely and follow the simple steps that save lives whenever they’re enjoying time in or near the water.”

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reminds parents and caregivers to follow Pool Safely’s simple steps to keep children safer in and around the water:

● Install a four-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate around all pools and spas.

● Designate an adult Water Watcher to supervise children at all times around the water.

● Learn how to swim and teach your child how to swim.

● Learn how to perform CPR on children and adults.

● Teach children to stay away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid entrapments.

● Ensure any pool or spa you use has drain covers that comply with federal safety standards.