Private pools: The underestimated danger for our children!

Private pools: The underestimated danger for our children!

In the warm summer months, many families are drawn into the cool water. But that is not without risk, especially for the youngest family members. Thomas Wagner, senior physician of the children's intensive care unit at the Donaustadt Clinic, draws attention to the fact that water accidents, especially in private pools, represent one of the most common causes of death in children. Around 40 people drown in Austria every year, and many bathing accidents would be avoidable if parents would be aware of the dangers, such as the Samariterbund reported.

Wagner explains that often there is no supervisory staff, especially with unsecured pools. Many children cannot swim, which is why learning early is essential. "I recommend teaching children from the age of three," says Wagner and warns that swimming aids such as wings or tires can never replace the responsibility of the parents. Accidents often happen when adults are distracted. Especially in their own garden, parents should make sure that the children play in a safe environment.

First aid and important prevention measures

In an emergency, every second counts. Wagner advises to activate the rescue chain immediately and initiate first aid measures. This includes, among other things, the child's ventilation, which should take place as quickly as possible, because after three minutes under water, irreversible damage can occur. "Water cannot just run out of the lungs," warns the expert. Parents should also take part in first aid courses in order to be able to react correctly in an emergency, according to the recommendations of Malteser .

When it comes to self -rescue, it is important not to neglect your own security. When can help be provided? That should never happen from an unsafe position in the water. Instead, the Maltese website advises: "Search for life rings, ropes or floating objects" and only approach the drowning person from behind. This is how you avoid panic -like clip attempts from the drowning.

dangers at home and abroad

The numbers speak a clear language: DLRG recorded an increase to 411 fatal accidents in waters for Germany in 2023. This shows that the dangers are present not only in private pools, but also on public seaside resorts. Ute Vogt, President of the DLRG, expresses her hope that more people will be sensitized to the safety of her children. Especially against the background that the warm months often have a higher number of bathing accidents, education and provision are particularly important.

In the period from 2007 to 2021, 53 children drowned in Austria, most of them under the age of four, and the Donaustadt clinic treats five to seven children every year after bathing accidents. Here it becomes clear that awareness, the right action and timely training are crucial to prevent these tragic accidents.

The responsibility for the safety of our children in the water lies with all of us. Let's be vigilant and sensitized so that we can safely enjoy the beautiful summer days.