During the warmer months, pools and beaches become popular destinations for people of all ages to enjoy some fun and relief from the heat. Unfortunately, these joyful aquatic environments can also pose significant risks, particularly when it comes to young children. Drowning remains a pressing concern, with an average of 3,700 drownings occurring annually in the United States. The Children’s Safety Network highlights that unintentional drowning is the leading cause of death among children under the age of four and ranks as the third-leading cause of preventable death among children ages 5 to 19. Astonishingly, almost 900 of those who perish in drowning accidents each year are children.
Understanding the Risks:
One of the challenges in preventing child drownings is that children can often splash and play in the water while remaining upright, which can create a false sense of security. This lack of awareness about the potential dangers of swimming pools may lead them to venture into the water unsupervised, putting themselves at risk. It’s vital to recognize that drowning can occur in as little as 20 seconds, leaving very little time for intervention if a child slips away from their parents near a pool and begins to drown.
Baby Otter Swim School’s Life-Saving Approach:
At Baby Otter Swim School, we firmly believe in the importance of introducing children to water safety from a young age. Our swim lessons are specifically designed for young toddlers, starting as early as nine months old. With our proprietary Turn, Kick, Reach® program, we equip children with the necessary skills to stay safe in and around water.
The Turn, Kick, Reach® program focuses on teaching young toddlers what to do if they fall into a pool to ensure their safety. By empowering children with the knowledge of how to react in such situations, our mission is to stop childhood drownings. Our experienced instructors provide comprehensive lessons that typically span just a few hours, during which children learn essential water safety techniques.
Choosing Education Over Floaties:
While floaties may provide some temporary assistance in the water, we firmly believe that education is a more effective approach to preventing potential drowning incidents. Floaties can create a false sense of security and dependence, whereas our swim lessons instill vital skills and knowledge that children can carry with them for a lifetime. By teaching children what to do if they fall into the water, we empower them to act confidently and increase their chances of survival.
In a matter of seconds, a young child can slip away and find themselves in a dangerous situation. Baby Otter Swim School is committed to saving lives through our Turn, Kick, Reach® program. By introducing children to water safety at a young age and equipping them with essential skills, we provide them with the tools needed to stay safe in and around water. Invest a few hours in swim lessons with Baby Otter Swim School, and help protect your child from the potential dangers of drowning. Remember, education is key, and it can make all the difference in preserving children’s lives.