The summer months are fast approaching and each year, about 4,000 people drown in the U.S. For kids ages 1-14, drowning is the leading cause of injury death.
Dr. Megan Maraynes, Medical Director of the Pediatric Emergency Department at Ochsner says when it comes to young children those toddlers can drown in even an inch of water
"They lack the cognizant ability to understand the dangers of water and so precautions really need to be taken in the summer with pool and beaches," Maraynes said.
Maraynes says the key is to always have a designated sober adult watching within arms length of the child.
"It can happen in even shallow water, it can happen in environments with a lot of adults around, for instance, family parties," Maraynes added. She says when they are near water, like a family gathering or party, it's a good idea to have a plan in place.
"You should always know where your children are and never assume that someone else is watching them," she said.