Emphasizing pool security, DC hosts ‘World’s Largest Swim Lesson’

Over 200 youngsters registered to take part in what D.C. known as “The World’s Largest Swim Lesson” on Friday, a part of a world motion that goals to assist forestall childhood drowning.

The occasion, which passed off at 30 swimming pools throughout the District, included fundamental swimming classes and conversations about what’s and isn’t secure to do in and across the water. The metropolis made the free program accessible to six to 12-year-olds.

At the Kenilworth Pool, a couple of dozen youngsters kicked their ft and blew bubbles as they eagerly listened to instructions from the trainer.

“It was kind of fun, because I never knew how to swim,” Naomi stated whereas floating on a pool noodle.

Thennie Freeman, director of D.C.’s Department of Parks and Recreation, stated the town hasn’t reported a drowning in a number of years and “we want to keep it that way.”

“The main concern is water safety and having people understand and respect the water, because it looks beautiful, but it is not to be played with,” Freeman stated.

Parent Summer Xavier stated there are birthday events and different occasions at which “there are trusted adults, but things happen. And so I just want to make sure that they feel safe, that they have the skills that they need so they can feel comfortable swimming.”

Cory Matthews, who stated he was a lifeguard on the Anacostia pool as a young person, stated it’s “important for all of our kids to know how to swim, pool safety, what to do by the pool, bodies of water all through the city, all those places.”

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