Doha, Qatar: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is committed to reducing drowning incidents in the country through public education on preventive measures.
HMC is working actively to raise awareness and promote safe swimming practices. As part of this effort, HMC has distributed safety guidelines, placing special emphasis on precautions for children when they visit beaches or swimming pools to reduce the risk of drowning.
HMC advises against leaving children unsupervised near water or swimming pools, especially those under the age of two, as even a minimal water depth of 5cm poses a drowning hazard that can be fatal within moments.
“Make sure they are wearing the appropriate swimwear for each age group and ensure that life jackets, rescue and floating equipment are available. It’s preferred to wear a swimming float,” said HMC.
HMC also recommends parents and adults sign up for swimming classes with a certified trainer. As a precautionary measure, it suggests swimming with a partner and avoiding swimming alone to get help in emergencies.
HMC also suggested that seagoers should be aware of the weather conditions.
