Warm weather has begun to emerge after a long winter, and it will not be much longer before water-patrons are back in the water to beat the heat of summer. Because of the ensuing water activities that will take place because of the nicer weather, May has been named the National Water Safety Month. This campaign by the organization, National Water Safety Month, has led the campaign in informing the public about how to appreciate all forms of aquatic activities, from home pools and spas, to water parks and beaches, with safety. In Rhode Island, this is especially important, as many patrons will flock to not only the public pools provided by towns and cities, but also to the many beautiful beaches that are offered to the public. In these crowded areas in Rhode Island, swimming pool injuries are much more likely to take place.
What Are Common Types of Swimming Pool Injuries in Rhode Island?
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, between the years 2005-2014, there were an average of 3,500 fatal, accidental drownings annually in the United States, leading to about ten deaths per day. The CDC also found that one in five people who die from drowning are children 14 and younger. For every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency department care for nonfatal submersion injuries.
Some common occurrences that led to these injuries and fatalities include: slipping and falling, electric shock within the water, back and spinal cord injuries due to diving in shallow water, lack of supervision by either a lifeguard or responsible adult and broken bones. These unfortunate accidents can lead to severe injuries, or worse, even death.
What Are Some Water Safety Tips to Use This Summer in Rhode Island?
To help lessen the possibility of one of the above accidents from occurring, please follow these tips:
- Choose a responsible “watcher” to observe children during get-togethers in pools.
- Educate your children on basic water safety.
- Mark CPR guidelines at the pool deck and learn the techniques in case of an emergency.
- Keep rescue equipment and a first aid kit poolside. With the time of four to six minutes without oxygen, permanent brain damage or death can result.
- Install fencing that completely surrounds the pool with self-closing and self-latching hinges. Some states may require you to post an additional fence around the entire yard.
- Keep swimming children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid being trapped.
- Maintain continuous visual contact with children in a pool or pool area. If a child is becomes missing around these areas, always check the pool first.
Contact a Rhode Island Swimming Pool Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been injured a swimming pool accident, contact one of our experienced Rhode Island swimming pool accident lawyers located throughout the state. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. No fees are received unless you win your case. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, please call use at one of our Rhode Island locations, or toll free at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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