Children aren't waterproof!

Drowning is the "silent killer". There is often no cry for help and very little sounds from splashing. Teaching an infant to swim is a fun activity, but can develop a false sense of security in the parents of small children. Just because a child knows how to swim does not mean s/he can save his/her own live if alone in the water. Factors that contribute to drowning such, as clothing, fatigue, and horseplay--may not be included in swim instruction.

Typically, the most common drowning victim is a 2-year old male who is last seen in a "safe area," far from the pools edge. Children are not the only victims of drowning. Adults have also been drowning victims from many factors: fatigue, excessive use of alcohol, diving from unsafe areas and over exertion, to name a few.

Supervision is the key to preventing a child from drowning. Additional protection can be installed around your back yard swimming pool.

These include:

1. Regularly check that the gate latches securely and that spring mechanisms work properly. Regularly oil the hinges and latches.

2. Don't allow children to play in the pool area. Remove all toys, tricycles - anything a child might want to get - from the vicinity.

3. Post CPR instructions and the 911 emergency number in the pool area.

4. Keep lifesaving equipment, such as a pole, life preserver and rope - in the pool area. Hang them from the fence so people won't trip on them.

5. Have a phone handy to the pool area. Do not answer the phone while your children are in the pool; use the phone only to call 911 should a problem occur.

The Huntley Fire Department urges you to follow these simple steps to help avoid medical expenses, parent misery and the loss of a loved one. For more information contact the Huntley Fire Protection District at 847-669-5066.