SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — As Suffolk County sees an increase in pool drowning deaths this week, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine urged parents to follow current pool safety standards.
Suffolk County even sent an alert to smartphones Tuesday, linking to water and pool safety tips.
“Please take some time this season to learn about pool safety,” Romaine said. “It could mean the difference between life and death.”
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There has been a spike in pool incidents on Long Island this season. Over the holiday weekend, two additional toddlers were found unresponsive in Suffolk County, in both North Haven and Deer Park.
Romaine directed residents to statistics at stopdrowingnow.com that said:
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- 88 percent of drownings occur with at least one adult present.
- 3,500 will die of drowning this year.
- Drowning is the #1 cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 4.
According to Romaine, to help reduce these numbers, the American Red Cross recommends:
- Always supervise children in the pool.
- Staying within reach of younger children.
- Installation of primary barrier and/or secondary barrier to prevent pool entry.
- Removing the ladder for an above ground pool when not in use.
- Enforce safety standards, such as no running around the pool. only diving where necessary. swimming with a friend; and swimming sober.
Suffolk County provides CRP courses to those interested. to schedule, contact 631-852-5080 for additional information.
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