On Thursday, June 17 from 12:00PM to 1:00PM, swimmers from Boulder City will join with tens of thousands of other swimmers around the world in the 13th Annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™️ (WLSL). The event is open to children and adults of various skill levels. The purpose of the event is to raise awareness of water safety. over 320,000 people have participated in the 13 years. Sign ups begin at 10:30AM. There is no cost to participate. Adults — especially parents — can learn more about the WLSL.org by clicking HERE.
In the United States, drowning is the leading cause of unintended, injury related death of children ages one to four and the second leading cause of accidental death for children under fourteen. Research in this area has shown that the risk of drowning decreases 88% among children ages one to four in those who take formal swimming lessons, like the ones offered at the Boulder City Municipal Pool, located at 861 Avenue B.
This event is held at an estimated 600 locations in over 20 countries. “Last year, COVID-19 kept so many of our children out of the pools. We have some catching up to do with our young swimmers and this is a way to make up for that lost time,” said Cheree Brennan, the City’s Aquatic Coordinator.
Some additional water safety tips include:
- Never leave children alone in and around water. Give young swimmers 100% of your attention during water play. Designate a spotter a parties whose sole job is to monitor what is happening in and around the pool to reduce the likelihood of tragedies.
- Have young or inexperienced swimmers wear USCG approved life jackets around the water. Do not solely rely on life jackets to prevent drowning!
- Make sure pools and spas have appropriate safety measures like childproof fencing, pool alarms, rescue equipment and that the pool is clean and safe from hazards.
- Learn what to do in an emergency, including CPR.
- More pool and water safety tips can be found HERE,
“The event happens the same week the US Olympic swimming trials are happening in Omaha, NE, 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,” noted Roger Hall, Parks and Recreation Department Director. “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,”
