Swimming is a life-time skill, and yet many children and adults do not know how to do it.
That is why the YMCA in Silver Spring is stepping up to help.
This summer, the Silver Spring chapter is providing free swim lessons to 112 children between the ages of 6 and 12. The ‘Learn to Swim Program’ takes place during two summer sessions. Session Two is currently underway. Each child receives eight lessons during the session. The YMCA of the USA provided a grant to help pay for the lessons.
“We believe that every child should have the opportunity to learn to swim, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and confidence to enjoy water safely,” said David Rodriguez, District Executive Director, YMCA Silver Spring.
Drowning Dangers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates about 4,500 people drowned in the United States each year between 2020 and 2022. That is about 500 more deaths than in 2019. However, a CDC report released two months ago found having access to swimming lessons and water safety skills training can save lives.
The report estimates almost 40 million adults in the United States do not know how to swim, and more than half have never taken a swimming lesson. More than one in three Black adults reported they do not know how to swim. About two in three Black adults and three in four Hispanic adults report they have never taken a swimming lesson.
“We live near several rivers and lakes. There is so much water in our area. Drowning is the leading cause of death of young children,” Rodriguez said.
“It is important to understand how to be in water, and not be afraid. Together we can make a significant impact and help ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn to swim, promoting safety and confidence in and around water,” he added.
Firefighters Help Spread the Word
Pete Piringer is the spokesman for the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Department. He said the County has had two drownings and several near drownings so far this year.
“We encourage people to take swim lessons.We are pro-active in the community about water safety,” Piringer said.
He said it is important for people to not let their guard down. He said firefighters will be out this weekend in the Great Falls area to remind people the County does not allow swimming there.
“Water levels are low, water temperatures are in the 80s, thus some areas are extremely dangerous. Swimming and entering the water without a boat is prohibited, illegal, and in all cases very dangerous, ” Piringer said.
Next week, fire stations across the County will receive materials on water safety to distribute to the community. Some firefighters will show up at local pools to help get the word out. This follows the death of a 3-year-old boy who drowned earlier this month at a neighborhood pool in Rockville.
