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Water park dangers

By Beth Janicek

It's that time of year again. Once kids are out of school, every amusement park, pool, beach, and river will be full of families enjoying the summer. It is important that parents know how to keep their kids healthy and happy over the summer.

Every year millions of people around the world visit amusement parks and water parks, and many do not know about the hidden dangers and the accidents that can occur.

Water Park Risks

About 1,500 children in the U.S. drown annually, and for every drowning there are six to ten near drowning. Although backyard pools pose the greatest risk to children, there is just as much risk of injury at swimming pools and water parks that have lifeguards.

If your family visits a water park make sure that there are enough lifeguards, and ask about their lifeguard training. Life guards should be able to scan and supervise their entire area of responsibility from one side and back within a 30-second period. If that is not possible, then there are not enough life guards present. Also, even with life guards present, always watch your children carefully. Never take your eyes off of your child, and make sure they follow the rules of the pool.

According to Bill Connolly, director of the Division of Codes and Standards with the New Jersey State Department of community Affairs,

'Nearly all pool injuries are a result of horsing around. Supervision is key to safety.'

Waterborne diseases

Drowning is not the only hazard for children in water parks and pools. According to the CDC, 1,474 people contracted waterborne diseases from swimming in chlorinated pools between 1999 and 2000. In June 1998, a dozen children contracted E. coli bacteria at an Atlanta water park and one child died. Although chlorine kills most germs right away, the bacteria from fecal material can live in pools for days. Chlorine levels should be monitored at least every four hours during peak season. A pool having cloudy water is a sure sign that it is not safe. Another sign is if your eyes start stinging, which is a byproduct of chlorine binding with dirt and urine.

Remind your children not to swallow the water, and remember to clean out the water from their ears after swimming. Shower before entering the pool, and if your child have a bathroom incident (even in a swim diaper), exit the pool immediately.

In addition to these tips come up with a plan in case anybody gets separated, and dress your children appropriately. Remember these water park safety tips to help ensure a fun, safe summer for your family.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Beth Janicek

Full post as published by San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyer on May 12, 2010 (boomark / email).