SYLVANIA, Ohio — As the summer heat wave continues, many are flocking to local pools to cool off. Though swimming is a fun and relaxing way to beat the heat, swim safety still as important as ever.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 15% of adults - or an estimated 40 million people - in the United States cannot swim.
The CDC said an effective way to prevent drownings is to learn basic swimming and water safety skills. Compared to 2019, drownings increased by 28% among children aged 1 to 4 in 2022. The leading cause of death in that age group is accidents, according to the CDC - which includes drownings.
Sydney Limbert, Assistant General Manager at Goldfish Swim School in Sylvania, shared why it's important to start swim lessons, especially at a young age.
"Swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning up to 88% for kiddos between the ages of 1 and 4, so starting young is imperative to their safety," Limbert said. "Safety for kiddos is the number one priority for kids and grandparents alike. Water safety is no different, and that should always be at the top of our list."
Limbert said people who might be nervous about swimming should take a swim lesson to better equip themselves for swimming in any weather.
The Goldfish Swim School is hosting its 15th annual World's Largest Swim School lesson Thursdday in Sylvania. You can watch a live stream about swimming lessons and safety from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance below:
This event, among other swim lessons throughout the summer, is a chance for children 13 and under to learn basic swimming skills and pool etiquette.
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