National Water Safety Awareness Month Sheds Light on Crucial Safety Measures

Minneapolis MN, May 2024 – As the temperatures rise and people head to pools, lakes, and beaches for recreation, May marks National Water Safety Awareness Month, a critical reminder of the importance of staying safe in and around water. In light of this, attorney Ali Sieben of personal injury law firm Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben is advocating for efforts to promote water safety awareness throughout the month.

Water-related activities offer endless enjoyment, but they also present potential risks, especially for children and inexperienced swimmers. National Water Safety Awareness Month aims to educate individuals and communities on how to prevent water-related accidents and tragedies.

Ali Sieben (Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben – asieben@schwebel.com) and Adam Finkel (The Haggard Law Firm – acf@haggardlawfirm.com) recently settled a case for $4.25 million for a family whose 5-year-old son drowned in a community pool. In addition to helping families after the tragic loss of a loved one, Ali and Adam hope to prevent another tragedy this upcoming pool season by encouraging all to safely maintain their pools this season. Drownings are preventable when safety measures are in place.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 11 people die every day from unintentional drowning, with children aged 1 to 4 at the highest risk. The majority of these incidents occur in residential swimming pools, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and precautionary measures.

To mitigate these risks, it’s important to advocate for the following water safety tips:

• Supervision: Designate a responsible adult to actively supervise children at all times in and around water. Avoid distractions like phones or reading materials while supervising.
• Swimming Skills: Enroll children and adults in swimming lessons taught by qualified instructors to ensure they have the skills necessary to swim safely.
• Life Jackets: Ensure that everyone, regardless of swimming ability, wears a properly fitted life jacket when boating or participating in water sports.
• Barriers: Install proper barriers, covers, and alarms on and around pools and hot tubs to prevent unsupervised access by children.
• CPR Training: Learn CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). In the event of an emergency, knowing CPR can be the difference between life and death.
• Avoid Alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol while participating in water activities. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Weather Awareness: Stay informed about weather conditions before heading out on the water. Be prepared to seek shelter or postpone activities if severe weather is forecasted.
• Buddy System: Always swim with a buddy, regardless of age or swimming ability. Having someone nearby can provide assistance in case of an emergency.

By following these essential tips and remaining vigilant, individuals and families can enjoy a safe and enjoyable summer season in and around the water.

National Water Safety Month occurs annually each May and is a collaborative effort of the National Recreation and Park Association, the American Red Cross, the World Waterpark Association and the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. Additional tips, events, awareness materials and resources are available on each organization’s respective website.

If you or a loved one is injured in a water safety accident, don’t hesitate to contact the law firm of Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben for assistance. We have experienced lawyers who can help you understand your legal options and fight for fair compensation. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected. Contact us online at schwebel.com or call us at (612) 377-7777 or 1 (800) 752-4265 to schedule a free consultation.

###