4-Year-Old Drowns in Greensboro Pool: Experts Share Crucial Safety Tips

GREENSBORO, N.C. — A Greensboro neighborhood is grieving after a tragic accident over the weekend. The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office says a 4-year-old boy was found unconscious and not breathing in a neighbor’s pool on Thayer Circle on Saturday. The homeowner discovered the child, but despite efforts to save him, he did not survive.

Authorities are still investigating how the drowning happened, and details remain limited. However, one thing is clear: we all want to protect children around the water. So 2 Wants To Know asked the experts for the best ways to stay safe.

Anitra Fulton, owner of Swim Fanatics in Greensboro, has dedicated her life to water safety. A former paramedic and lifeguard, she has witnessed the devastating impact of drowning firsthand.

“When it’s a child, it’s unbearable. There is nothing that can describe the pain of watching a mother wail when she realizes her child is gone.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children begin swimming lessons between the ages of 1 and 4, as drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children in this age group.

“We start lessons as early as four months,” Fulton explained. “As long as the child can hold their head up straight and maintain body temperature, we’ll start them in swim lessons with a parent.”

Beyond swim lessons, pool owners have a responsibility to ensure their pools are safe. Brianna Tysinger from Aquavision Pool and Spa in High Point emphasizes the importance of proper barriers and maintenance.

“It’s your responsibility as a pool owner to make sure you are protecting the people around your pool and your family,” Tysinger said.

North Carolina law requires that all in-ground pools be enclosed by at least a four-foot fence. Many homeowners rely on backyard fences, but pool safety experts recommend installing an additional removable barrier directly around the pool. These barriers can be easily removed for events but serve as an effective deterrent when the pool is unattended.

You also want a gate that opens outward. When it’s closed, it stops kids from being able to push in to access the pool.

Tysinger also advises regular safety inspections:

“Pool owners really need to be doing safety checks and inspections to make sure everything is up to code and working, no matter how old the pool is.”

Homeowners should ensure that gates close and latch automatically. If a gate has issues, adding a lock can provide an extra layer of protection.

Despite best efforts, accidents can still happen. Fulton urges parents and guardians to remain vigilant:

“There’s no such thing as a perfect parent, and there’s no such thing as a drown-proof home. If you have access to water, your children are at risk, and you need to take that seriously.”