A Hope to Set New Records in Colorado in 2024

Practicing to Infant Survival while fully clothed is important because clothing and shoes can add 2 to 3 times the weight. Ms. Haley and Dallas, 18 months old, practicing rolling and floating in clothes.

Many swim organizations and swim schools focus on teaching survival skills in the water. As you know, Little Fins Swim School is passionate about drowning prevention and survival swimming. When we heard that 2023 was the deadliest year for drownings on record in Colorado lakes, rivers, and streams, we knew we needed to do something.

Reports claim that many deaths in Colorado last year occurred because swimmers, boaters and paddleboarders were not wearing the right gear (i.e. life jackets). We recommend always wearing a life jacket when enjoying water activities. But what else can we do?

“Be prepared,” says Lauri Armstrong, Little Fins Swim School owner, “It is important to practice water safety year-round, and practice what could happen in an accident.” Did you know that 80% of children who fall into a body of water are fully clothed and wearing shoes? Armstrong says, “Take the time with your instructor to practice falling in. Also, plan to bring your child fully-clothed to lessons a few times year.” If you can have your child wear heavy clothes, like jeans, snow jackets, or snow boots, this is the best way to simulate a worst-case-scenario.

Little Fins is using the month of January in their Aqua Babies (parent participation) classes to invite parents to bring their little ones into the pool in pajamas. “The theme this month is ‘Good Night Baby,’” says Sophia Nutter, Aqua Babies Program Specialist, “and we want parents to practice water safety and survival skills in real clothes with their babies.”

What To Know when exploring near water...

Cold Water Lakes, Rivers and Streams can be inviting. They are beautiful. The instant that cold water makes contact with your skin, you experience a number of potentially lethal shock responses. This is water shock.

Keep mindful of water levels. They can change quickly.
Understand water shock.
Never swim alone.

What to do when going around bodies of water...

Always wear a life jacket.
Be prepared; take survival swimming lessons, and practice, year-round.
Know your skill level and grow your skill level.

Stay safe around water this year, Colorado.

If you would like more information on enrolling for swim lessons, look for a local swim school near you who focuses on water safety and survival. Enroll for a free trial lesson at Little Fins Swim School if you are in the Colorado Springs region.