Tot’s drowning death highlights hazards of swimming pools

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - A 2-year-old drowned in an Augusta pool, and now we know the child’s name.

Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen said Kenzo Burt was found unresponsive in a pool on Westfield Drive, south of Daniel Field.

It happened just after 5 p.m. Tuesday.

We spoke with a lifeguard about safety when children are around the water.

Drowning is actually the leading cause of death for children between 1 and 4 years old – and it happens fast.

“Things always happen when you don’t think they will happen, lifeguard Lilianna Oliverio said, so always take precautions.

For every child who drowns, five more are treated in the emergency room for near drowning.

Oliverio says there are some things to keep in mind anytime kids are around water.

The first step starts before you get in – by staying hydrated.

It’s very important that you eat and drink throughout the day because heat exhaustion is real thing and it affects a lot of people, she said.

It can cause seizures, which can lead to drowning, she said.

And the color of your swimsuit matters, too.

“They’re going to want to wear a light blue suit,” she said. “I know it’s a really cute color, but you really can’t see it when they are swimming in the water. They can get lost and we might not see them if they are in distress.”

Instead, choose a bright color that’s easy to spot underwater.

She also recommends keeping pool games to a minimum.

“For instance chicken-fighting – we all love to do it, especially when we are with our buddies,” she said. “but in the shallow water, you can hit your head.”

That could lead to serious injuries.

Her most important advice is never to swim alone.

She wants people to know communication at the pool is very important.

Let a lifeguard know when you are not feeling well or if a child at the pool can’t swim.

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