Three families who were visiting the Phoenix area during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend are dealing with unimaginable trauma after their children were found unresponsive in backyard swimming pools.
The recent drowning and near-drowning cases are prompting first responders to remind everyone to have a conversation with friends and family about water safety, no matter how chilly it is outside or how cold the pool water might feel. They say it's critical to discuss drowning dangers and the safety measures you have in place as you plan your next holiday gathering.
Lori Schmidt, president of the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona and spokesperson for the Scottsdale Fire Department, pleads with people to pay attention to their homes, friends' homes, or homes that visitors might rent over the holiday season. "Water safety is a year-round concern," she explained.