‘Drowning is Silent,’ Maple Grove Swim Instructors Share Important Safety Reminders
Drowning is often silent and it’s one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
That’s why swim instructors at Life Time’s swim school in Maple Grove want to raise awareness.
“It’s hard for them to cry out for help when they’re focusing on getting their face above the water to get breath,” said Aquatics Leader Lauren Rose.
Rose says drowning can happen in just 30 seconds and there are signs to look for.
“Someone who is floating above or below the surface for an extended amount of time.”
Rose says another clue is if the person is in a vertical position trying to keep their head above the water to breathe, or someone who is starting to sink and not making forward progress in the water.
She says to follow the 25:10 rule.
“This is a swim test; we ensure that swimmers are able to swim 25 consecutive yards within a pool continuously whether it’s on their front or back.”
If a swimmer can’t pass the test, someone should be within 10 feet of them.
Rose says a nationwide lifeguard shortage is even more reason to prioritize safety this summer.
“Have a life-jacket or a puddle jumper with and make sure the straps are secured correctly.”
Rose also recommends more people get CPR certification.
