Water Safety Education and Training Saves Lives

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. Here in southern Louisiana that means family gatherings and fun times in and around the water.

But sadly, without the proper water safety education and training, these activities can quickly turn into tragedy. Over the past two years child drownings in Louisiana increased by 60%.

Louisiana has the third-highest rate of drowning in the country. With a nationwide shortage of lifeguards the last few years, the chances for drowning have risen exponentially, increasing the need for essential life-saving water safety education.

Our mission at the YMCA of Greater New Orleans is to help parents understand that educating their children about safety in and around water is one of the most important life lessons they can provide. While we cannot guarantee that a child will not end up in a dangerous situation, we can give them the skills needed to help them save themselves in a water emergency.

Last year, the Riley Bourgeois Act was passed by the Louisiana Legislature. Named for a 2-year-old boy who tragically died in 2018 after drowning in a neighbor’s pool, the bill mandates water safety education for all Louisiana public school students.

This past year the Y has taught over 2,000 children water safety and swimming lessons. We offered these programs free of charge to more than half, including children with special needs and diverse abilities.

We start with children as young as 6 months. Through H2Geaux, a YMCA Safety Around Water Program, and traditional swimming lessons, we strive to further bridge cultural and access gaps that can prevent some children from learning important water safety skills.

If you know how to stay safe in and around water, swimming can be a lifelong source of fun and exercise.

TAYLOR OELKING

Metairie