Pools are the backdrop of our best summer memories, but behind all the splashy fun in the sun is a very real and serious truth. Every year, preventable pool accidents turn bright moments into lifelong tragedies.
It’s the kind of topic no one really wants to talk about, but everyone needs to hear because it could save a life.
Six months ago, influencer Emilie Kiser’s toddler drowned in a pool. In a recent post on Instagram, remembering her late son, Trigg, she is sharing pool safety tips for parents to help prevent drowning deaths.
The first tip is to watch your children at all times around the pool area. According to Kiser, “no amount of supervision is too much” or considered “helicopter parenting.”
Number two: it is crucial to have a pool fence, not just an automatic cover or a net. Add alarms and extra locks to your doors.
Number three: sign your kids up for swimming lessons. Children can begin lessons as young as six months old.
And, lastly, make sure to take every possible precaution with your children when they are around water, whether it’s a pool or a lake, because drowning can happen fast.
“I know statistically Trigg’s drowning won’t be the last, and more have happened since,” Kiser wrote. “Drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4 in the U.S.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that appointing at least one person to watch the water at all times is best practice when supervising children.
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It is also recommended to empty out inflatable or portable pools after every use. Additionally, children should never be left alone in a bathtub or under the care of another child.
Previously, a pediatrics professor from Ohio State University, Dr. Sarah Denny, shared several other tips about water safety not listed above. First of all, parents should model examples of safe behavior, such as wearing personal flotation devices along with the kids.
Secondly, water toys, including noodles, inflatables, and water wings, should not be used as safety equipment. In addition, kids should wear bright colors around the water. Yellow, orange, red, or pink swimsuits and lifejackets allow them to be spotted more easily in the water.
Kiser concluded her post about her son, saying, “I miss him daily. I love him forever, and I hope I can spread even an ounce of the joy he gifted to us and everyone he crossed paths with each day.”
Many people commented on the post, offering words of support for Kiser’s loss and praising her for her strength.
“You are so deeply loved, and this community is wrapping their arms around you,” wrote one person.
“You are a GREAT mom and Trigg knew how loved he was,” declared another.
“You are one strong woman, wife, and mama! I know Trigg is watching you from up above,” stated a third.
You can view Emily’s original post on Instagram here.
By Emily Chan
Emily Chan is a writer who covers lifestyle and news content. She graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in… More about Emily Chan
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