On Thursday, June 22 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 14 years. There is no cost to participate. Adults — especially parents — can learn more about the WLSL.org by clicking HERE. Please sign up at the Recreation Center (900 Arizona Street) or use the Recreation Department portal (see flyer below) before June 21, 2023. Registration at the pool begins promptly at 11:00AM.
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. “Boulder City is home to hundreds of backyard pools and our
community sits along Lake Mead,” said Cheree Brennan, Boulder City Aquatics Coordinator. “Water safety is a priority for many youth and adults in our community. There are always risks in and around the water. We all need to play a part in education,
safety and drowning prevention.”
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.
According to the American Red Cross, water competency skills have increased significantly in the U.S. in the past eight years, jumping from 46% to 56% of people possessing key, lifesaving water competency skills in 2020. “Swimming is a healthy, fun way to get a workout, and learning safety and techniques while young can last a lifetime,” said Roger Hall, Director of Boulder City Parks and Recreation Department. “We’re proud to once again be a host site for this special event.”
