Hundreds of children drown during the summer months

Minister Dr Ratchata Ratchatanawin said a survey by the Disease Control shows that around 1,200 children below 15 years old die from drowning annually, or as many as four children per day.
The number of deaths usually increased during the summer months of April, May and June. An average of 148 children died in April, 129 in May, and 125 in June in the past decade.
Most of them drowned in natural water settings, including canals and ponds, swimming pools and bathtubs, respectively. The incidents happened most frequently during the afternoon and evening hours, and occurred to more boys than girls.
Ratchata urged parents to keep an eye on their kids when they were near the water, especially those younger than 5 years old. They should not be left by themselves even for just a few seconds as they are not physically strong enough to hold themselves upright even in shallow water.
He has also instructed local public health offices and other related agencies to convey to parents the need to protect their youngsters.
Warning signs must be posted around the water bodies and safety gears should be kept nearby. People are encouraged to dial 1669 for help when needed.