Parents, guardians and property owners are being urged to secure water sources as part of efforts aimed at keeping children safe.

The appeal comes from the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA).

It follows the suspected drowning of two young children in recent incidents.

The latest incident, which occurred last Thursday, involved nine-year-old Samuel Clarke of Long Hill District, St. Elizabeth.

Samuel reportedly entered an unsecured tank at the back of his home while attempting to retrieve a ball.

A neighbour discovered his body.

The second suspected drowning, which happened late last month, involved five-year-old Rakeema Williams of Rocky Point in Clarendon.

Police reported that the child was believed to have fallen into an open pit at her home.

CPFSA’s Chief Executive Officer, Laurette Adams-Thomas, described the incidents as terrible losses.

She also stressed the importance of caregivers creating hazard-free environments for children.

This, Mrs. Adams-Thomas said includes conducting regular checks to secure all water sources such as tanks, cisterns, drains, ponds, and other bodies of water.