Watch children closely near swimming spots, ministry warns
THE Public Health Ministry has warned parents to keep a close watch on their children at swimming spots, as an average of 402 children have drowned each summer over the past decade.
Minister Dr Rajata Rajatanavin said a survey by the Disease Control Department showed that around 1,200 children below 15 years old die from drowning annually, or about three children per day.
Rajata said the number of deaths usually increases during the summer months of April, May and June.
He said an average of 148 children died in April, 129 in May and 125 in June over the past decade. Most drowned in natural water settings, including canals, ponds, swimming pools and bathtubs.
Rajata warned that children younger five were particularly vulnerable.
He said they should not be left by themselves near swimming spots even for a few seconds as they were not physically strong enough to hold themselves upright even in shallow water.
People are encouraged to dial 1669 for help when needed.