With adults and children making their way back to pools, lakes and rivers, albeit slowly, it’s a good time for reminders on water safety. America’s Boating Channel and organizers of the 2020 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL) are two of the organizations that have made this a priority.
Last week, America’s Boating Channel debuted the seventh video in its boating safety and education series, “Life Jacket Labels,” showing the new labeling system in place for life jackets. Performance levels of these jackets as well as tips regarding warning icons are also covered.
WLSL (#WLSL2020) officials are reaching out virtually on Thursday to offer tips, resources, information and guided lessons that parents can do with kids at home regarding water safety. Dozens of nationally recognized water safety and training organizations support the WLSL event each year. With day camps canceled and the delayed/limited opening of pools and waterparks this summer, TEAM WLSL is sharing their expertise with families at home to help bridge the gap for kids that have not been able to participate in traditional swim lessons.
This comes as the Army Corps of Engineers reports an increase in adult drowning at its lake and river projects this summer.
“July is the month when we normally see the most water-related accidents and fatalities so there is even more reason to be concerned this year,” said Pam Doty, USACE National Water Safety Program manager. “We have a continuous water safety awareness program at our lake and river projects, and we stress to the recreating public a number of things to be aware of before going swimming in open waters.”
“Safety is always the first priority for our aquatics community,” said Rick Root, President, World Waterpark Association. “And, working to help families access water safety and learn to swim resources is more important than ever in our current environment. Whether they participate at a live WLSL event in their community or join us online, we want kids to learn how to Be Water Aware and parents to understand the crucial importance of learning to swim as a key layer of protection for drowning prevention.”
America’s Boating Channel launched “Boater Education,” “Engine Cut-Off Devices,” and “Life Jacket Care” in May, and “Behavioral Consequences,” “Introducing ATONS” and “Dispelling BUI Myths” in June, generating increased viewership as Americans stayed home to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus pandemic.
Recreational boating is experiencing higher levels in 2020 as people resume outdoor activities. Screening boater education videos is an excellent way for boaters to prepare for safer experiences on the water.