Drowning Prevention Starts with Swim Lessons
By The United States Swimming School Association
Water activities are a source of enjoyment for people of all ages, but they also come with inherent risks. Drowning remains a leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths among children in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), accidental drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause of death for children 5-14.
Participation in formal swim lessons can reduce the likelihood of childhood drowning death by 88% for children under four.
Knowing how to swim is a critical life skill for children and adults. As we witness rising drowning statistics across the United States, it’s clear that swim lessons are more important than ever, especially for children, who are most vulnerable.
Rising Drowning Rates: A National Concern for All
According to a recent report from the CDC, more than 4,500 people died due to drowning each year from 2020–2022, which is an increase of 500 more per year as compared to 2019. This includes incidents across all age groups, though children under four are at the greatest risk. Adults, particularly those who have never learned to swim, are also at risk. Almost 40 million adults (15.4%) in the U.S. do not know how to swim and over half (54.7%) have never taken a swimming lesson.
The Lifesaving Benefits of Swim Lessons for Everyone
The American Academy of Pediatrics, through HealthyChildren.org, emphasizes the importance of early swim instruction, noting that swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% for children aged 1 to 4. While children benefit greatly from starting young, it’s never too late for anyone to learn to swim. Whether you’re a teenager, adult or senior, swim lessons can help build the confidence and skills to enjoy the water safely.
For children, swim lessons are a particularly effective way to instill water safety habits early in life. These lessons can reduce panic in emergencies, improve physical coordination and even enhance cognitive development. For adults, swim lessons can fill gaps in water safety knowledge and provide a fun way to stay active.
How Swim Schools Can Make a Difference for All Ages
The U.S. Swim School Association believes swim lessons teach lifelong skills that benefit individuals at every age. Its member schools are committed to providing high-quality swim instruction that meets the unique needs of learners of all ages and skill levels. Whether your child is experiencing their first swim lesson or you’re an adult looking to build water confidence, enrolling in a reputable swim school can enhance water safety, promote physical fitness and foster a lifelong love of swimming.
Swim schools play a pivotal role in not only teaching children essential water safety skills but also empowering families as a whole. Early swim lessons help children develop strong safety habits, improve motor skills and build self-esteem.
For adults, learning to swim can reduce anxiety around water, provide an excellent form of low-impact exercise and ensure they’re prepared to assist or supervise children in and around the water. By offering programs for all ages, swim schools make a lasting difference by creating safer, more confident swimmers at every stage of life.
What to Look for in a Good Learn-to-Swim Program
Selecting an appropriate learn-to-swim program is crucial. Here are key factors to consider when making this important decision:
Safety measures
- Vigilant supervision: Ensure the school’s facilities are safe, staff members are vigilant, and staff members are prepared to respond in an emergency with at least one CPR/first aid certified individual in the facility during all hours of operation.
- Comprehensive safety plans: The facility should have an Emergency Action Plan, staff training and health protocols.
- Child protection policies: Verify that staff members undergo regular background checks and receive training on preventing and responding to child abuse.
Qualified instructors
- Qualifications: Experienced and qualified swimming teachers will give students of all ages the best opportunity to learn.
- Experience: Ensure instructors have received formal training that includes first aid, proper supervision during swim lessons, bloodborne pathogens knowledge, abuse prevention, emergency action plans, reducing fear and anxiety, child development related to teaching swimming and the importance of a positive learning environment.
Class structure
- Appropriate ratios: For young or beginner swimmers without a parent or other caregiver in the water, the instructor-to-student ratio should be no more than one adult to six students, with a best-practice ratio of one adult to four students or fewer.
- Age and skill grouping: Classes should be organized by age and ability to provide a tailored learning experience.
Curriculum focus
- Water safety education: Beyond teaching swimming strokes, programs should emphasize water safety skills and awareness.
- Progressive skill development: The curriculum should support continuous advancement, encouraging swimming as a lifelong activity.
Parental involvement
- Observation opportunities: Parents should be allowed to observe lessons, fostering transparency and engagement.
- Educational resources: Programs should provide guidance on water safety to reinforce learning at home.
Facility standards
- Cleanliness and maintenance: Well-maintained pools and facilities contribute to a safe and healthy learning environment.
- Safety equipment: Ensure the availability of appropriate safety gear, such as rescue tubes or ring buoys, shepherd’s crooks or reaching poles, spine boards, automated external defibrillators, gloves and breathing masks.
Program reputation
- Insurance: Confirm insurance coverage.
- Community feedback: Seek reviews and testimonials from other parents to gauge program quality and effectiveness.
- Resources: To find swim lessons near you, visit org.
By carefully evaluating these aspects of your local swim school, you can select a learn-to-swim program that not only teaches your child how to swim but also instills essential water safety skills, contributing to their overall well-being and confidence in aquatic environments.
Act Today
With drowning rates affecting both children and adults at a higher rate than ever, it’s essential to make swim lessons a priority. By enrolling for lessons at a U.S. Swim School Association member school, you and your family will gain the skills necessary to stay safe and confident in the water.
It takes a village to reduce drowning risks and ensure everyone can enjoy water activities with peace of mind.