We’ve all seen how the movies portray drowning-the splashing and noise, but this is far from reality. There are no splashes or noises and the water is calm.
Every year, too many toddlers drown in water related accidents. One person never thought it would happen to their then two-year-old son. As an ambassador for the Judah Brown Project, she works to make sure no family in Louisiana endures the pain of losing their toddler.
When asked how she got involved, she said
after losing her two-year-old son to a drowning accident, she was told about
the Judah Brown Project from a friend and loved what they did for families to
spread awareness for drowning and became a part of this organization and
helping to spread awareness in the state of Louisiana.
When asked what she wished she knew about
drowning, it was that puddle jumpers, which are a combination of a life jacket,
swim aid and swim vest, give children a false sense of security in water. A
child slips their arms through the arm floats of the puddle jumper, and then
the device is buckled behind the back to secure it.
What are some things new parents should know before signing up for swim lessons? Understanding that swim lessons are only a part of water safety and there are other layers of protection to be used to keep your child safe near any body of water. These include barriers & alarms to prevent a child from entering a body of water unsupervised as well as supervision.
“Caregivers should always designate one person who is responsible for supervising children in, on or around water. That person should never take their eyes off the child, not even for a second,” says the website for Judah Brown Project.
Water Competency. Step or jump into the water over your head and try to return to the surface and float or tread water for one minute.
Life Jackets-when near, on or in the water, but especially when wading, swimming, fishing, boating or during any other water-related activity. You may not have time to put on your life jacket if you encounter a water hazard, slip while fishing or fall out of your vessel.
Emergency Preparation- Knowing how to do
CPR is critical to restoring air movement after a drowning incident.
Never Swim Alone: The first and most important rule for water safety is to always use the buddy system. If swimming with small children, ensure they are always within arm's reach.
One piece of equipment she wants to see
gone is the notorious puddle jumper. The child wears this routinely while
swimming confidently and returns to the water without it.
“Puddle Jumpers and floaties are notorious for helping children develop ineffective swimming posture. They are subconsciously training children to be in an upright and vertical position in the water- head up, feet down, arms out. This only expedites a drowning since the child struggles to stay afloat,” says the website for Judah Brown Project.
“Not one more” is not just a slogan for the Judah Brown Project, but their mission to educate new parents on the dangers of swim equipment and drowning.
If you want more information, or wish to donate, visit www.judahbrownproject.org.
