Water safety is important especially for children of color!

Learning to swim early can save lives

Learning to swim at a young age is crucial for children of all backgrounds, particularly for children of color, as it plays a significant role in preventing accidental drowning fatalities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children aged 1 to 14 years. A study conducted by the USA Swimming Foundation also found that approximately 64% of African American children, 45% of Hispanic children, and 40% of Caucasian children have little to no swimming ability. Teaching children of color to swim not only provides them with a life-saving skill but also empowers them to engage in water-related activities safely. It helps promote confidence, physical fitness, and overall water competency, reducing the risk of drowning incidents. Encouraging swimming lessons and water safety education in diverse communities can be a proactive step toward addressing these disparities and ensuring a safer future for all children.

For more information and statistics, please refer to the following source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Unintentional Drowning