Spring's already underway and summer is just around the corner. While summer is a fun time with backyard parties and barbecues, it is also a dangerous time when it comes to swimming pool accidents. Local officials have started issuing safety alerts warning parents and homeowners about the danger of swimming pools, importance of fencing and locking backyard pools and most importantly, supervising children.

The most recent alert was issued by Ventura County officials on April 1, a day they called "April Pools Day" to remind the public about a very important issue. According to county health officials, Ventura County saw an increase in near-drowning incidents in 2009. In 2007, there were five; in 2008, there were six; and there were seven near-drowning incidents in 2009, officials said.

Increase in Near-Drowning Incidents

This steady increase in near-drowning incidents is disturbing and cause for serious concern. Near-drowning incidents can cause catastrophic injuries including brain injury because when a child is underwater, the oxygen supply to the brain is cut off. Many children, although they are revived and survive, are left with lifelong mental or physical problems. In the worst cases, these near-drowning victims remain in vegetative states. Los Angeles County has more than 200 near-drowning incidents a year. And Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties together account for half of all near-drowning incidents in California.

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children younger than 5 in California. More than 80 percent of drowning and near drowning occur in backyard swimming pools, often because of a very brief period of inattention or lack of supervision. In 2005, there were 3,582 drownings in the United States, averaging 10 a day. More than one in four swimming pool accident victims are 14 years old or younger.

Always Supervise Children

When it comes to prevention, supervision is the key. Ventura County officials are offering "child watcher kits" that include a plastic tag with a lanyard that says "designated child watcher." This watcher must never take his or her eyes off any child in a body of water. Remember that if you have a pool party this summer then you could be held liable for any drowning or near-drowning incident that occurs on your property or under your watch. Victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, cost of hospitalization or even long-term care if the injuries are catastrophic. An experienced California personal injury lawyer can help victims better understand their legal rights and options in such cases.

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