Making a Splash: Closing the Drowning Gap for Our Children

Imagine a hot summer day. Kids are splashing in the pool, carefree and full of laughter. But for some families, this scene can hold a hidden fear. Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional death for children, especially among Black and Latino communities. This means that thousands of children are missing out on a fundamental life skill that could save their lives.

According to a USA Swimming survey, a staggering 64% of Black children and 45% of Latino children have little to no swimming ability, compared to 40% of White children. These disparities are rooted in complex issues like limited access to pools and swimming lessons, often due to socio-economic and historical factors.

Learning to swim is more than just a fun activity; it’s a life jacket for our children. Imagine the joy and confidence a child feels conquering their fear of water, or the sense of accomplishment mastering a new stroke. Swimming strengthens the heart and lungs, improves mental well-being, and builds a foundation for lifelong water safety.

According to the CDC, Black children aged 5-19 are 5.5 times more likely to drown in swimming pools than White children, while Latino children face a 1.2 times higher risk.

This Water Safety Month, let’s celebrate organizations like MVP Lifeguards, a Bronx-based company making waves in the fight against drowning disparities. Founded by Olga Perez, MVP Lifeguards provides top-notch lifeguard services and comprehensive swim programs. But their true impact lies in their commitment to underserved communities.

MVP Swimmers, a non-profit organization established by Ms. Perez, is a new initiative that further expands access to swim lessons by offering affordable options to those who may not be able to afford traditional programs. Still in its early stages, MVP Swimmers is poised to make a big splash in the fight against drowning disparities.

Here’s how you can make a splash!

Support Local Initiatives: Research organizations like MVP Lifeguards and MVP Swimmers in your area. Donate, volunteer your time, or spread the word about their programs.
Advocate for Change: Speak up about the importance of public pools and accessible swim programs in your community. Contact your local representatives and voice your concerns.
Raise Awareness: Share information about drowning disparities and the benefits of swimming. Encourage others to take a swim class or water safety course.
Become Water-Safe Yourself: Set a positive example and be prepared in case of an emergency by enrolling in a swim lesson or water safety course.

By recognizing Water Safety Month and supporting organizations working tirelessly to close the drowning gap, we can create a future where all children can enjoy water activities safely, regardless of their background. Together, we can turn the tide on drowning and ensure every child has the opportunity to make a splash in life.

Additional Links

Visit MVP Lifeguards