CPSC Issues New Drowning Report with Child Fatalities; Reminder for Extra Water Safety Vigilance
A dip in the pool is a great way to cool off from the hot summer sun, but it is crucial to prioritize water safety, especially while younger children are around. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently published its 2023 drowning report. The report is an eye-opening reminder of the possible risks associated with water-related activities. To minimize the risk and protect swimmers, safety testing of pool and swimming products is lifesaving.
According to the report, child drowning remains a leading cause of death among children ages 1 to 4 years old. On average, there were 371 reported cases of fatal drowning related to pools or spas per year between 2018 and 2020. 80 percent of the recorded drownings occurred in residential spaces such as the victim’s own home.
The report also emphasizes the importance of extending water safety information and support to historically excluded communities. Racial disparities are evident in drowning fatalities, as African American children make up 21 percent of all drownings out of the total 63 percent of drowning fatalities.
Water product safety testing is so necessary, as the data shows, and should urge parents and guardians to be alert of their children’s location at all times.
Testing Pool and Swimming Products:
The tests aim to assess the performance, durability, and safety of various items, such as:
- Flotation Devices: Products such as life jackets, inflatable rafts, and floaties should be tested for their buoyancy, secure fastening mechanisms, and resistance to wear and tear.
- Pool Fences: Pool fences act as a barrier to prevent unsupervised access, especially for young children. Stringent safety testing of pool fences involves evaluating their sturdiness, height, gate latching mechanisms, and resistance to weather.
- Water Toys: Water toys are a fun addition to pool time but need safety testing to evaluate and minimize risks. Evaluations focus on factors such as material, durability, and small parts that could be a choking hazard.
- Drain Covers: Properly functioning drain covers are important for preventing entrapment incidents. Testing procedures for drain covers ensure safety standards are being met. Assessing their having sufficient flow resistance and prevention of hair or body entanglement are tests drain covers can undergo.
You can read the full CPSC drowning and entrapment reports by visiting PoolSafely.gov.
As we dive into the summer season, promoting water safety awareness and rigorous testing of pool and swimming products creates a safer environment for all. Manufacturers, producers, and consumers can have a positive impact on reducing water-related accidents, so aquatic activities can be enjoyable throughout the summer.
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