Child drowning serious problem in New York State. How to stay safe.
Children drown fast. In an instant, without warning, a child can be fighting for their lives in a stream or lake or swimming pool. Just recently, a 14-year-old boy died when he drowned in Lake Erie near Westfield, N.Y.
Sadly, children drown more often than you may realize. Among children 1 to 14 years old, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental deaths nationwide. And among the 3,443 people who died nationwide from drowning in 2007, one out of five victims was under 14 years old.
Swimming pools are magnets for children on a hot, summer day. But children can drown just as easily in several inches of water in a bathtub. And for every child who dies from drowning, another four must be rushed to an emergency room for nonfatal injuries caused by being submerged under water.
Injuries sustained by children who survive a drowning can be severe and change their lives forever. Being submerged under water for just four to six minutes can often result in permanent brain damage.
Sometimes, children drown accidently. Other times, other people’s reckless behavior results in your child’s death or injury. That’s why laws exist requiring swimming pools to be fenced in. That’s why responsible adults put life preservers on children every time they ride in a boat. Accidents happen. Be prepared.
Every parent dreads experiencing such a horrific accident. We all believe we will share our entire lives with our children. Losing them in such a traumatic way can be shattering. Knowing what to do next can be baffling. We can help. We’re the Law Offices of James Morris.
Serving Buffalo and other communities throughout New York State, James Morris has years of experience representing children and their families. Don’t delay. Take action. Contact James Morris today. We’re on your side.
Tags: Child Drowning