It’s almost officially summer, which means the DC pools across the city will be packed with people who want to simultaneously soak up the sun and take a dip to stay cool. It’s a wonderful time for friends and families, but there is a serious side to all the fun: DC pool drownings are very real and cause heartache that doesn’t just affect the victim’s family. The sadness spread to friends and throughout the communities who hear about how and when the drownings take place.
The Silent Killer
Drownings have been dubbed “The Silent Killer” because when a drowning happens, it isn’t loud. There isn’t a loud crash like what you might hear with a car and despite what many people may think, there typically isn’t a lot of thrashing and splashing with drownings. It’s quite the opposite.
Because the victim’s lungs are filled with water, they can’t yell and scream for help. Those who may be able to help in an otherwise “louder” emergency, won’t know a deadly situation is happening because there is no sound coming from the victim.
The stories of drownings like this in Washington, DC pools and in other areas are unbelievably sad: get-togethers, (large or small) are filled with friends and family. A child falls in the pool, and because there is so much happening, no one sees the process unfold. Five minutes or more pass before anyone sees the horrible scene: a child is at the bottom of the pool, and when they are pulled out, it’s too late. The silent killer has struck again. Moreover, it doesn’t just happen to kids; adults are victims of this silent killer as well. The worst part of it all is that drownings can be prevented nearly in nearly every circumstance.
Tips to Prevent a Drowning at DC Pools This Summer
There are several steps you can take to make sure you or someone you love doesn’t become a drowning victim.
Know the Swimming Levels of Everyone
Do you have a guest who can’t swim at all or who is just an average swimmer? Don’t take chances: if someone isn’t a good swimmer, he or she needs a life jacket if they can access the pool. No exceptions.
Don’t Host Too Many
If you’re hosting a pool party or get together, put the rule in place early on that every child must have an adult in charge of that child’s supervision. If this isn’t possible, make sure there is a dedicated person (or people) watching the swimmers and the pool at all times.
Ban the Alcohol
Alcohol is prohibited at all DC Public Pools, so if you’re considering a drink while swimming, hold off until you get home.
No toys
The rules state that there are no toys, floating devices, masks or snorkels allowed at DC Public Pools.
Avoid Distractions
Mobile phones are the cause of distraction in many cases. For the sake of safety, put your phone away if you are in charge of supervising swimmer.
Educate Swimmers on Drains
If a pool drain begins to suck down water, a child could be pulled into the “current.” The pressure and pull of the water are extreme. Educate swimmers about pool drains and hot tub drains and tell them to stay away from the drains. Also, advise swimmers to tie back long hair to keep it from getting tangled in the drains and if you or someone else sees a loose drain cover, report it and do not swim until the drain cover is put back in place.
DC Drowning Lawyer
You want to take every precaution you can to prevent a drowning. However, the unfortunate reality is that terrible tragedies happen. If someone you love has been a victim of a DC pool drowning, you need to get help from a DC Personal Injury Lawyer who will support and guide you through each step of the legal process.
If this Washington, DC pool drowning could have been prevented in any way, personal injury lawyer Larry Lapidus will work tirelessly to support your case so you can receive a fair and reasonable settlement. Call today for a free consultation at (202) 785-5111.