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Summer Fun Turns Tragic in Missouri Drowning Accidents

Missouri is known for its beautiful lakes and scenic waterways and water recreation is a popular way to cool off on those hot and sultry Missouri afternoons. However, summer fun can quickly turn to tragedy for the unwary.

Drowning accidents claim the lives of thousands of people each year. The Centers for Disease Control and prevention   (CDC) reports that in 2005 alone, there were 3582 fatal unintentional drownings in the United States, and an additional 710 people died in boating related incidents. In 2006, the U.S. Coast Guard received reports for 4967 boating incidents. Among those who drowned, 9 out of 10 were not wearing life jackets. More than one in four fatal drowning victims are children 14 and younger. Most drownings in those over 15 years of age occur in natural water settings such as lakes, rivers or the ocean.

Some of the major risk factors in drowning accidents are (1) lack of appropriate barriers and supervision; (2) age and recreation in natural water settings such a lakes, rivers or the ocean; (3) lack of appropriate choices in recreational boating; and (4) alcohol use.

What can you do to prevent water related injuries:

  • Designate a responsible adult to supervise young children while in or around water.
  • Always swim (or boat) with a buddy
  • Learn to swim. Be aware that the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend swimming classes as the primary means of drowning prevention for children younger than four.
  • Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  • If you have a pool at home, install a fence that completely separates the house and play area of the yard from the pool area. Also consider additional barriers such as automatic door locks or alarms to prevent access or to notify you if someone enters the pool area.
  • If you are in or around natural bodies of water, always use U.S.Coast Guard approved life jackets when boating, regardless of distance to be traveled, size of boat or swimming ability of boaters.
  • Watch for dangerous waves and signs of currents.
  • Don’t use alcohol. Alcohol influences balance, coordination, and judgment, and its effects are heightened by sun exposure and heat.

For more safety tips check out the Home and Recreation Safety page at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you or a loved one has been injured and need help, come to a firm that has decades of experience in injury law. We have helped injured people and their familes recovery the compensation they deserve. Call Now 1-800-254-3455 or contact us at info@tgflaw.com 

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