By Thokozani Mazibuko
An 18-month-old baby girl drowned in a 20-litre bucket filled with water and clothes in the Nkalashane area.
The tragedy occurred on the morning of January 14, and the child was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at Nkalashane Clinic.
According to Assistant Superintendent Nosipho Mnguni, the Deputy Police Information and Communication Officer, this unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present in common household items.
“We often think of large bodies of water as the primary source of drowning incidents. However, this tragedy demonstrates that even seemingly harmless objects, like a bucket of water, can pose significant risks to young children,” Mnguni remarked.
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According to the Deputy PICO, it is essential to initiate discussions around water safety and preventative measures to ensure that such incidents do not occur again.
Here are some recommended safety tips for parents and caregivers:
“Always store buckets, tubs, and other water containers upside down when not in use. If this is not possible, ensure that they are empty and out of reach of young children.
Never leave young children unattended near any water source, including buckets, toilets, and sinks. It is crucial to always have an adult supervising, even for just a few moments,” she said.
Moreover, she pointed out that teaching children about the dangers of water is important, even if they are not swimming. Simple conversations about staying safe around water can foster awareness and caution.
“If you have a swimming pool, consider installing safety fences with self-closing gates. Ensuring that children cannot access bodies of water without supervision can significantly reduce the risk of drowning,” she stated.
It should be noted that being prepared can save lives and parents and caregivers are encouraged to take CPR and first aid courses. Knowing how to respond in an emergency can make all the difference.
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Further, investing in childproof locks and gadgets to keep bathrooms and laundry areas secure. These preventative measures can help limit children’s access to potentially dangerous areas.
It is worth mentioning that this devastating incident brings to light the importance of water safety awareness and by taking preventive measures seriously and ensuring that children are supervised and aware of the dangers, we can work together to prevent future tragedies from occurring.
In memory of the young life lost, let this serve as a call to action for parents and guardians everywhere to enhance the safety of their homes.
The Lomahasha community extends its condolences to the grieving family during this incredibly difficult time.
