Swimming Pool Owners Warned to Be Vigilant
From Times Wire Reports
At least three small children have drowned in backyard swimming pools in the Bay Area during the last few weeks, prompting experts to warn parents to be more careful.
Nationwide, nearly 400 toddlers drown in residential pools each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Consumer Products Safety Commission. About 5,000 children are hospitalized annually because of near-drowning episodes. More than half suffer irreversible brain damage.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that a protective fence be installed and that children in or near swimming pools be closely supervised.
