WATER SAFETY

May EVERY MONTH is Water Safety Month

We are committed to raising awareness and taking action to help prevent the tragedy that is youth drowning. Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children ages 5 to 14, with children from communities of color at greatest risk. We just don’t talk the talk, we walk the walk. Every year, we give over local 1,000 Sarasota second graders a week of free swim lessons to Sarasota County Schools. Financial assistance is available so every child or adult is able to take life-saving swim lessons. It’s never too late to learn this crucial Florida skill. Safety comes first!

WATER SAFETY TIPS

With summer around the corner, now is a great time for parents to remember the importance equipping children with essential water safety skills. We offer water safety and swim lessons year-round to help reduce the risk of childhood drowning and develop a lifelong love of swimming. Swim lessons are an essential part of keeping kids safe in and around the water, but there’s no substitution for parental or adult supervision. Often times when everyone is watching the kids; that means no one is watching the kids. There should always be someone designated to watch the kids, especially when they’re around water. Before letting your children hit the water this summer, remember these few tips to ensure it’s an enjoyable and safe experience.

NEVER SWIM ALONE.
Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty.

SUPERVISE YOUR CHILDREN WHENEVER THEY’RE IN WATER.
Whether it’s bath time, a pool party or taking a dip in the gulf, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.

DON’T ENGAGE IN BREATH HOLDING ACTIVITIES.
Children shouldn’t hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can cause drowning and has several other severe physical side-effects.

WEAR A LIFE JACKET
Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

DON’T JUMP IN THE WATER TO SAVE A FRIEND WHO IS STRUGGLING IN DEEP WATER. 
If a child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, they should “reach, throw, don’t go.” Use a long object to reach for them and pull them to safety. They can help their friend without compromising their own safety.

ENROLL YOUR CHILDREN IN WATER SAFETY OR SWIM LESSONS.
Just like teaching your children to look both ways before they cross the street, participating in formal water safety lessons teaches them an important life skill.