Portable pools, ranging from small plastic wading pools to relatively large constructions that hold 3-4 feet of water are increasing in popularity because they are easy to assemble and are a cheap alternative to formal pool systems. A new study, however, suggests that these portable pools may be very dangerous to young children. According to the study, in the last several years there has been 244 serious incidents involving portable pools, with 209 of those cases resulting in death by drowning. 94% of the victims were children under the age of 5, and most injuries occurred at the child’s home.
The reason for this high risk of danger is unclear but there may be many factors:
- Portable or temporary pools do not have the same protective and/or safety equipment that formal pools have;
- parents are less likely to be in the pool with the child when and if a problem occurs;
- some parents may wrongfully assume that the pool is too small to pose a risk;
Drowning can occur in a flash and so suddenly that even monitored children are at risk. It is imperative to constantly monitor children in a pool and if the child is particularly small, to always be within arm reach so that you can save the child immediately.
All pools, above ground, in-ground, or portable are a serious danger to children and parents and supervising adults must act with extreme caution to prevent catastrophe.
I can think of no worse injury or loss than harm done to a child, but if the unthinkable has happened to your family, I want to help. Contact my office for a free consultation and I can explain your rights regarding your injured child.