Paediatric Nurse warns parents to be vigilant this winter

Sarah Hunstead warns parents that drownings don't just happen in summer. Here, she shares her tips for prevention during the colder months.

Although we may associate drowning with summer and warmer weather, water hazards are still present in winter, sometimes in different or less obvious forms!

Here's how to ensure children are safe around water in the colder months. 

1. Baths and Plugs:

A warm bath on a chilly night is a real treat but can pose a risk if little ones are not monitored properly. Always supervise children during bath time, never leaving them unattended, even for a moment. Make it a mantra in your household—“kids out, plug out.” Always immediately pull the plug when bathtime is finished. Additionally, ensure you keep the bath plug out of reach of little hands between baths. 

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How to keep kids water safe during Winter. Source: iStock

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2. Rain, rain:

Rain or melting snow can create unexpected hazards for curious little explorers. Puddles are so much fun to play in but remember: an infant can drown in as little as five centimetres of water, so supervision is needed for little ones. Don’t forget to ensure items like kiddy pools, buckets, wheelbarrows, etc., aren’t collecting water while being stored!

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3. Hot Tub Tips:

Ensure hot tubs are securely covered with a locked lid when not in use to prevent access. Educate older children about the dangers of hot tubs, emphasising the importance of never entering without adult supervision. Always supervise children closely around hot tubs and keep long hair up.

4. Secure Water Containers:

Keep buckets, tubs, and other containers emptied and stored upside down when unused. Even a tiny amount of water in a bucket can be hazardous for an infant who topples in headfirst. Vigilance is vital to preventing these accidents, so always be mindful of potential hazards around the home - check down the side of the house, the backyard or common areas, and the laundry/garage.

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5. Don’t Forget The Pool!

Your pool may not get much love over Winter, but that doesn’t mean pool safety should be neglected. Ensure pools are inaccessible to little ones and that covers, gates, etc., remain in good condition. Pools that are murky and contain debris may appeal to children who want to reach for or play with debris, but water that isn't clear can hide hazards or a child who has fallen in.

TIP: If your child is enrolled in swim classes, putting them on pause over Winter can be tempting—but keep it up! Learning to swim is vital in keeping children safe all year round. 

Know how to respond to an emergency involving your little one. Book a baby + child CPR & First Aid class today.

Sarah Hunstead is a Paediatric Nurse and founder of CPR Kids. She is also the author of  ‘A Life. A Finger. A Pea Up a Nose’ CPR Kids Essential First Aid Guide for Babies and Children.

Originally published as Paediatric Nurse warns parents to be vigilant this winter