The latest movement in water safety efforts

No matter how many warnings, or public service announcements, it seems we hear eabout another drowning or near drowning in the news every few days. Drownings are the number one cause of accidental death in young children in Arizona, and in Maricopa County things are worse. The area is 5th in the nation for drownings, making water safety a big priority.

SWIMkids USA is striving to keep Arizona children safe in the water with a unique program that was developed in Florida. On the child's 9 or 12 month checkup to the pediatrician, the doctor will write a 'prescription for water safety lessons'. At that time, the parents also receive a Water Smart Babies handbook with safety information including CPR classes, facilities for water safety lessons, and pool fences and alarms. The move makes water safety 'doctor's orders'.

Many may question whether a child can learn water safety at such a young age. Lana Whitehead, founder of SWIMkids USA in Mesa, says babies can be taught to grab or reach for the wall and even learn an 'airplane' roll where they would float on their back and even kick to the wall. Whitehead goes on to say babies can also begin bond with their parent or teacher in the water.

SWIMkids USA, Inc.
2725 W. Guadalupe Rd.
Mesa, AZ 85202
(480) 820-9109
www.swimkidsaz.com