As more people seek water to escape the heat over the coming weeks and months as summer and the school holidays kick into gear, Townsville City Council has partnered with Love2Swim swimming school to provide free water safety lessons to kick off water safety week.
Councillor Brodie Phillips said learning to swim was crucial when it came to living in North Queensland.
“Swimming is a big part of life here in Townsville, so it’s vital people not only know how to swim but are aware of the fundamentals of water safety,” Cr Phillips said.
“As a parent of two young boys I know just how important it is to get children exposed to water and drilling into them the importance of being safe around bodies of water.”
Councillor Phillips said the local water safety initiative would run from 9-14 December to raise awareness of the importance of teaching people the necessary skills and knowledge they need to be safe and have fun in the water.
“By partnering with Love2Swim swimming school we’re hoping to get kids in the pool who may not have had the opportunity, or the exposure to swimming and water safety, but it also supports our community to participate in sport and recreation through development of fundamental skills,” he said.
“These free 30-minute lessons will cater to varying levels of confidence, with kids learning skills like how to put on a life jacket and what to do once you are in the water, how to float and ask for help if you are in an emergency, how to recognise a person drowning and what rescues to perform to help them, as well as basic lifesaving skills and fun water games.
“Held across three locations from 9-14 December these sessions are sure to book out quickly so, get online or pick up the phone and book in today.
“The important thing to remember is water safety doesn’t end after December 14, it’s a vital skill for everyone to learn and I’d strongly encourage Townsville parents and carers to make sure your child knows the fundamentals when it comes to swimming.”
