Learning about water safety and being taught basic survival skills is the intent behind the free one day "Swim to Survive" program being offered Sunday July 23rd at North Bay's Birchaven Cove on Trout Lake.
Offered by the city through the Lifesaving Society, children aged 6 to 14 will learn essential skills that could save them if they were to have an unexpected fall in deep water.
"They're grouped together when they show up because there's no registration needed. They just show up Sunday between one and five. They will be taken into the water by lifeguards for about 15 minutes, then they bring in the next group," said Nicole Plumb, Beach Director for the City of North Bay.
The lifeguards will go over three main skills with the youngsters.
"The kids will be taught how to roll into the deep water as though they've fallen off a boat, they will tread water for a minute, and then they swim 50 metres as though they were going to shore for safety. We also teach them water safety like what they need to bring on a boat and always making sure you have a buddy system."
Although one isn't required, swimmers are allowed to bring water wings or a life jacket. If they don't own a life jacket, one will be provided.
"We have two lifeguards who will be running the program and myself who will be down there in case we get really busy, said Plumb." Usually we take a maximum of six kids per group, because of regulations, lifeguards can only take six kids in a class,"
The program is not meant to be a substitute for swim lessons.
Swimming is reportedly the second most popular activity for children between the ages of five and 12.
As the parent of a young girl, Jackie Murphy, is a true believer in swim programs.
"I think it's extremely important. I have an eight year old daughter and we've had her in swimming lessons since she was three months old. So we believe in it very much, and she's a great swimmer now where she can go in the water by herself and we have no worries, but we do watch her closely. So lessons for kids at a young age, or at any age is extremely important."
At the end of their session, each child will receive a certificate.
