4-Year-Old Drowns in Hot Tub

A 4-year-old girl drowned in a whirlpool spa during a weekend birthday party in Laguna Hills, prompting authorities to warn the public about water safety for children.

Allison Susman slipped into the spa at an apartment complex in the 25000 block of Stockport Street about 8 p.m. Saturday, said Orange County sheriff's spokesman Jim Amormino.

About 60 parents and children were at the party, but the tot was left unobserved for about 15 minutes, according to Amormino, who said the death appears to be a "tragic accident."

The girl was pronounced dead about 24 hours later at Children's Hospital Orange County.

It's a good practice to have someone stationed at both ends of a pool to keep an eye on kids during gatherings, Amormino said.

"It's always important for someone to keep an eye on the kids and the deep end of the swimming pool and Jacuzzi," he said. "In a matter of seconds, a child could drown."

-- City News Service