Child Drownings Common in Shallow Pools

More than 200 U.S. children died from drowning in portable backyard pools from 2000 through 2009, a new study finds. Another 35 came close to drowning. The new study looked only at portable pools, not the in-ground type. The depth was up to 4 feet. But 41% of the cases where the pool depth was known occurred in “wading pools.” These pools are less than 18 inches deep. Almost half of the children who drowned were 1 year old. Nearly all were under 5. About 66% of children were supervised. But in 18% of these cases the attention lapsed. Most often this happened because the supervisor fell asleep, did chores or answered the phone. Researchers say keeping children away from the pool is the most important step. But they noted that many people may consider a fence not affordable for a portable pool.