Pools are one of the best parts of the summer. But, for children, they can also be one of the deadliest. Every year, 350 children die of drowning, and most of those cases occur in a backyard pool, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. It is the leading cause of death by unintentional injury in children ages 1 to 4 and the second leading cause for those ages 5 to 9, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The good news is that drowning is entirely preventable. With these recommended steps, you can keep your children safe. Be your own lifeguard. Beaches and public swimming pools have a lifeguard for a reason. That reason doesn’t go away when it comes to backyard swimming pools. Always keep an eye on your children. Don’t get lost in a book. Don’t scroll through Instagram or take breaks inside. For children, drowning can occur in just 30 seconds. If you’re having a party, pool safety advocates recommend designating one parent as a ‘water watcher.’ You can have the duties rotate so everyone can enjoy the party, but at least one adult always has to have their eyes on the pool. Know the signs. Being an…

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