Elementary students “swimmingly” take water safety training

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – More than 100 Frankfort elementary students took part in hands-on water safety training Monday thanks to a partnership between Swim With Purpose and the YMCA of Central Kentucky.

Around 115 second- and third-grade students from Second Street School participated in safety lessons and introductory swim sessions at two YMCA locations in Lexington.

Organizers say the goal is to teach life-saving skills early, especially since drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children ages 5 to 14.

“We all want to say that we know how to swim, but we know that is not the case,” said Jessica Berry with the YMCA of Central Kentucky. “It is very important for us to not only teach water safety skills to young kids, but to also make sure they have the opportunity to learn how to swim.”

The program also offers a four-day follow-up session in October, which will provide lessons, lunch, transportation, and even swimsuits at no cost to families.