RHHD provides drowning prevention tips to Richmond area residents

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are offering drowning prevention tips to spread awareness when swimming this summer.

According to RRHD, in Virginia, nearly 500 people have accidentally drowned over the last five years. Drowning is a leading cause of death in children.

RHHD provided the following drowning prevention tips: 

• Active supervision: Never leave a child alone near a pool/spa, bathtub, toilet, or standing body of water. When supervising children who are near the water, adults should be free from distractions.  
• Swim lessons: Teach children basic swimming and water safety skills. Swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning. Children, even those who've had swimming lessons, still need close and constant supervision in or around water. 
• Learn CPR: Bystander-initiated CPR can make the difference in someone’s life while waiting for paramedics to arrive. 
• Approved safety devices: Floaties, water wings, pool noodles and inner tubes are toys. These air-filled or foam toys are not designed to keep swimmers safe. Only use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. 
• Barriers and alarms: Install barriers and alarms to prevent children from gaining access to a pool or open water unsupervised. 
• Avoid swimming after dark: Swimming after dark makes it hard to see if someone is drowning. 
• Listen to the lifeguard: Make sure to listen to any directions from the lifeguard and follow all advisories. But remember, a lifeguard does not replace the need for active supervision of any children in and around the water. 

For more information, folks can visit the Virginia Department of Health's website.