A Florida dad recently dove into a backyard pool, clearing a 4-foot high safety fence in his path to save his 1-year-old son from drowning. The boy had wandered inside a pool fence, which unfortunately did not completely surround the pool. In an instant the boy had fallen into the water. News and video of that heroic rescue were broadcast widely, including the dad’s honest admission that the fence configuration was not completely secure. Drowning is the #1 cause of accidental death of children of ages 1 – 4, according to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, and shockingly, 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present. That’s why the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends creating “layers of protection” to keep toddlers safe around pools. These include: secure pool fencing; alarms on pools, doors, and gates; pool covers; window guards for windows that face the pool; designated “Water Watchers” to pay constant attention to children in the water; life jackets; CPR training for parents, caregivers, and pool owners; and swimming lessons. ... Read More »