In a bid to combat the tragic incidents of child drownings in Gilbert, the local Fire & Rescue department is stepping up its game with a focused safety campaign. Despite the joy that a family pool can bring, it carries a serious risk, especially for kids between the tender ages of 2-5. Gilbert Fire & Rescue reports that these grievous events are not only swift but devastatingly quiet.

Looking to make a difference, the department has rolled out a prevention strategy dubbed the ABCD’s: Adult supervision, Barriers to the pool, Classes, and Devices. Pools are not the lone culprits here – the department warns a child can drown in as little as two inches of water. So they're tossing in a few more tips to help keep kids safe: empty those kiddie pools and assorted containers after use, never turn your back on a child in the tub, not even for a blink, secure those toilet lids shut, and keep bathroom doors firmly closed.

When misfortune strikes and a water-related incident does occur, there's no time to lose. Gilbert Fire & Rescue advises to yell for aid, pull the child out of the pools immediately, and dial 911 without delay. Those trained in CPR should start immediately, and the untrained should hang on the line for step-by-step guidance until the professionals take over.

For the folks in Gilbert looking to get schooled on water safety, there's no shortage of resources. The local fire department's website is awash with life-saving information for would-be heroes. By visiting gilbertaz.gov/watersafety, residents can enlighten themselves on preventive measures and emergency actions – all with the hope that this summer's memories are free of tragedy.