As summer draws near and families prepare for outdoor adventures, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is reinforcing the importance of water safety. With May designated as National Water Safety Month, HCPH is dedicated to educating the community and raising awareness to prevent drownings, particularly among young children.

The Urgency of Water Safety

Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal a sobering reality: drowning is the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 4 in the United States. Among children aged 5 to 14, it ranks as the second leading cause of unintentional injury death, following motor vehicle crashes. These statistics underscore the critical need for vigilant water safety measures.

 A Call to Action

"Tragedies are preventable," emphasizes Scott Jeansonne, HCPH’s Environmental Public Health Director. "With summer on the horizon and more residents enjoying water recreation, it’s crucial to prioritize water safety measures and ensure everyone stays safe while having fun."

Local Impact and Statistics

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) reported that in 2023, 90 children tragically drowned in Texas, with 25 of these heartbreaking incidents occurring in Harris County alone. These numbers underscore the pressing need for increased water safety awareness and education within our community.

Essential Water Safety Tips

HCPH encourages residents to take proactive measures to prevent drowning incidents:

- Supervision: Always closely supervise children around water. Never leave them unattended in a bathtub, pool, or any body of water, even for a moment.

- Life Jackets: Use Coast Guard-approved life jackets for children who cannot swim.

- Swimming Lessons: Enroll children in swimming lessons to equip them with basic water survival skills.

- CPR Training: Learn CPR. This skill can be lifesaving in the event of a water emergency.

- Pool Fencing: Install pool fencing with self-latching gates and ensure it remains secure.

- Safety Equipment: Maintain pool safety equipment and keep it readily accessible.

- Emptying Containers: Empty bathtubs and buckets immediately after use.

- Bathroom Safety: Close toilet lids and keep bathroom doors closed when not in use.

Stay Informed

For comprehensive information on water safety, residents are encouraged to visit the Harris County Public Health website at [hcphtx.org/WaterSafety](https://hcphtx.org/WaterSafety) and the CDC’s water safety page at [cdc.gov/drowning/prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/prevention).

Conclusion

Harris County Public Health's commitment to water safety during National Water Safety Month underscores its dedication to protecting the community, particularly its youngest members. By following these safety measures and staying informed, residents can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer season for all.

Let's work together to keep our community safe and prevent water-related tragedies. Stay vigilant, stay safe!

For more info, visit https://publichealth.harriscountytx.gov/