Newman mums learn to Keep Watch

A group of new mums in Newman were recently introduced to the importance of water safety and drowning prevention through a Royal Life Saving WA Keep Watch presentation, supported by Principal Community Partner BHP.

Each term, the Newman Neighbourhood Centre runs a group for new parents in the area and invites speakers from various community organisations.

On Monday 22nd March, Royal Life Saving WA’s Deb Gill visited the group to speak to the mums and deliver a Keep Watch presentation. The Keep Watch program focuses on water safety and drowning prevention around the home for babies and toddlers.

On average, four children aged 0-4 drown each year in WA. Many more are admitted to hospital following a non-fatal drowning incident. Home swimming pools remain the biggest risk to young children, followed by bathtubs. Inflatable paddling pools, fishponds, buckets and even pet water bowls all pose risks as potential drowning hazards.

The Keep Watch session run by Deb explained where and why toddlers drown, talked about water hazards for different age groups and outlined drowning prevention strategies and how to respond in an emergency. “The session was attended by a small but enthusiastic group of mums, who are interested in learning more about CPR and first aid in case of emergency as well,” said Deb.

Keep Watch presentations are available for parents and carers of children aged 0-4, and are provided for new parent groups, playgroups and community organisations working with parents of young children.

To learn more about our parent presentations and organising a Keep Watch presentation for a parent group, visit the link below.