Dive in and join the festivities for National Learn to Swim Day on the third Saturday of May! This dedicated day aims to emphasize water safety and provide swimming lessons for individuals of all ages. Beyond the crucial aspect of safety, swimming offers a fantastic way to maintain an active lifestyle, enhance endurance, and alleviate stress. With consistent practice, you can swiftly develop into a proficient and confident swimmer. Seize the opportunity on this special day – grab your towel, and prepare for some enjoyable moments in the sunshine!

Origins and History

• Founded by Swimways: National Learn to Swim Day was established by Swimways Corporation in 2012. Swimways, a company known for manufacturing water toys and swimming aids, created the day as part of their commitment to promoting water safety and helping children become comfortable in the water.

• Initial Purpose: The goal behind National Learn to Swim Day is to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of teaching children how to swim and raising awareness about the potential dangers associated with swimming and other water-related activities.

Importance of Learning to Swim

1. Water Safety: Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death for young children, making water safety education a top priority. Learning to swim reduces the risk of drowning and equips individuals with the skills to handle emergencies in or near water.

2. Confidence in the Water: For many children and even some adults, learning to swim helps build confidence and reduces fear of water. Early swimming lessons can foster a lifelong love of water activities while also ensuring safety.

3. Lifelong Skill: Swimming is not only a life-saving skill but also a valuable recreational and fitness activity that people can enjoy throughout their lives. It provides a full-body workout, improves cardiovascular health, and is a low-impact exercise option.

How It’s Celebrated

1. Swimming Lessons: On National Learn to Swim Day, swimming schools, community centers, and organizations often offer free or discounted swimming lessons. Parents are encouraged to enroll their children in beginner swimming classes or take part in refresher courses to improve their water safety skills.

2. Water Safety Campaigns: Many organizations and companies, including Swimways and the Red Cross, promote water safety awareness campaigns on this day. They highlight the importance of swimming education and the need for supervision when children are near water.

3. Pool and Water Activities: Families and communities may participate in fun water-based activities, including pool parties and beach days, while ensuring that swimming safety is a top priority. Parents are encouraged to teach basic water safety rules, such as not swimming alone and staying within designated swimming areas.

4. Events at Aquatic Centers: Aquatic centers and pools across the country often host events to celebrate the day. These events might include demonstrations of swim safety techniques, discussions on water safety protocols, and organized activities to engage children and parents in learning essential swim skills.

5. Water Safety Tips for Parents: Various educational materials, including videos, flyers, and pamphlets, are distributed to parents to increase their knowledge about how to keep children safe around water. These materials typically emphasize the need for constant supervision and the use of proper flotation devices for children who cannot swim.

Key Messages and Tips for Water Safety

• Enroll in Swimming Lessons: Children and adults alike should participate in swimming lessons provided by certified instructors. Starting early can prevent water-related accidents and build confidence.

• Supervision is Essential: Constant supervision of children around water is crucial. Even proficient swimmers should be monitored, as accidents can happen quickly.

• Learn Basic Water Rescue Skills: Parents and caregivers are encouraged to learn CPR and basic rescue techniques to be prepared in case of emergencies. Having this knowledge can make a significant difference in a life-threatening situation.

• Use Life Jackets: Non-swimmers or inexperienced swimmers, especially children, should wear life jackets when around water. Floaties or inflatable devices are not considered substitutes for life jackets.

• Install Barriers Around Pools: For families with backyard pools, barriers such as pool fences, covers, and alarms are essential for preventing unsupervised access by young children.

• Know the Dangers of Open Water: Swimming in open water (lakes, rivers, or oceans) comes with different risks compared to swimming pools. Be aware of currents, tides, and uneven water surfaces, and always swim in designated areas.

Community Involvement

• Partnerships with Safety Organizations: Many organizations, such as the American Red Cross, USA Swimming Foundation, and YMCA, are involved in promoting swimming education and water safety during National Learn to Swim Day. They offer resources, classes, and guidance to communities and families.

• Government and Local Support: Some local governments and municipalities promote National Learn to Swim Day by supporting public awareness campaigns and providing access to public pools for free or at a reduced cost.

Why Swimming Education is Crucial

• Preventing Drowning: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death among children aged 1-14 in the U.S. Many of these drownings occur in residential swimming pools, but natural bodies of water also pose significant risks. Learning to swim can significantly reduce these numbers.

• Summer Water Activities: As the weather warms up and summer approaches, families spend more time around water, making it vital to ensure that everyone in the family knows how to swim. National Learn to Swim Day serves as an early reminder to prioritize water safety before summer begins.

Fun Fact

• Adults Too! While National Learn to Swim Day often focuses on teaching children to swim, it’s also important for adults. A significant portion of American adults are non-swimmers, so this day is also a reminder that it’s never too late to learn or improve your swimming skills.

Conclusion

National Learn to Swim Day plays a vital role in promoting water safety and ensuring that both children and adults have the necessary skills to enjoy water activities safely. Through educational events, swimming lessons, and public awareness campaigns, the day encourages families to take proactive steps in learning to swim and understanding the importance of constant water supervision.