BOULDER CITY – Boulder City youth and adults will join tens of thousands of swimmers at aquatic facilities around the world for the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL). On Thursday, June 17, 2021, from noon until 1:00 p.m., swimmers of all experience levels will do their part to raise awareness of water safety.
The international event will be held at an estimated 600 locations in more than 20 countries. “Last year, COVID-19 kept so many of our children out of the pools,” said Cheree Brennan, Boulder City Aquatics Coordinator. “We have some catching up to do with our young swimmers, and this is a great way to make up for that lost time.”
In the event’s 13 years, about 320,000 children and adults have participated in WLSL lessons. Drowning is the leading cause of unintended, injury related death for children ages one to four - the second leading cause of accidental death for children under 14 - in the U.S. Research shows that formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% among children ages one to four. Other advice for parents:
- Never leave kids alone in or around water. Put the cell phone away and give young children 100 percent of your attention when near or around water.
- Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.
- Make sure pools have appropriate fencing and safety equipment, as well as protection from hazards.
- Learn what to do in an emergency, including CPR.
“The event happens the same week the U.S. Olympic swimming trials are happening in Omaha. We’re proud to say that Zane Grothe, who will be competing for a spot on the Men’s Olympic Swim Team, basically grew up in our pool,” said Roger Hall, Director of Boulder City Parks and Recreation Department. “This event is a fantastic educational experience. Our leadership team and staff here at the pool make swim lessons a priority for the kids of Boulder City.”
Registration starts at 10:30 a.m. on June 17. Details are in the flyer (below). There is no charge to participate. Parents are invited to learn more about this phenomenal event by visiting WLSL.org.
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