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Private pools: The underestimated danger for our children!
The senior doctor at the Donaustadt Clinic warns of private pools as a drowning risk and emphasizes the need for early swimming lessons for children.
Private pools: The underestimated danger for our children!
In the warm summer months, many families are drawn to the cool water. But this is not without risk, especially for the youngest members of the family. Thomas Wagner, senior physician in the pediatric intensive care unit at the Donaustadt Clinic, points out that water accidents, especially in private pools, are one of the most common causes of death in children. Around 40 people drown in Austria every year, and many swimming accidents could be avoided if parents were aware of the dangers Samaritan Association reported.
Wagner explains that there are often no supervisors, especially at unsecured pools. Many children cannot swim, which is why learning to swim early is essential. “I recommend teaching children to swim from the age of three,” says Wagner, warning that swimming aids such as wings or tires can never replace the responsibility of parents. Accidents often happen when adults are distracted. Parents should make sure that their children play in a safe environment, especially in their own garden.
First aid and important prevention measures
In an emergency, every second counts. Wagner advises activating the rescue chain immediately and initiating first aid measures. This includes, among other things, resuscitating the child, which should be carried out as quickly as possible, as irreversible damage can occur after three minutes under water. “Water cannot simply flow 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 Maltese.
When self-rescuing, it is important not to neglect your own safety. When can help be provided? This should never be done from an unsafe position in the water. Instead, the Malteser website advises: “Look for lifebuoys, ropes or floatable objects” and only approach the drowning person from behind. This way you can avoid panicked attempts by the drowning person to hold on.
Dangers at home and abroad
The numbers speak for themselves: the DLRG recorded an increase to 411 fatal accidents in water in Germany in 2023. This shows that the dangers are present not only in private pools, but also in public bathing places. Ute Vogt, President of the DLRG, expresses her hope that more people will be made aware of the safety of their children. Education and precautions are particularly important, especially given that the warm months often bring with them a higher number of swimming accidents.
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 an estimated five to seven children every year after swimming accidents. This makes it clear: Awareness, correct action and timely training are crucial to preventing these tragic accidents.
The responsibility for the safety of our children in the water lies with all of us. Let's be vigilant and aware so that we can safely enjoy the beautiful summer days.