Kurt Semder

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Jul 3, 2024, 5:24 PM

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Updated

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Following the tragic drowning of a 2-year-old boy in Islandia, experts are sounding the alarm about the increased need for water safety education and spotlighting programs available to potentially save lives.

Bobby Hazen, of Stop Drowning Now, advises taking steps like adding fencing and gates to backyard pools, using life jackets and designate someone to watch the water and those in it.

He also says swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88%.

Rebecca Weiner created Aquafinz, a program that teaches children as young as 6 months old "survival swim."

They learn how to float on their back and get to safety. She says they learn competence and confidence to be able to save themselves in a life-or-death situation in the water.

For more information on these programs visit: Aquafinz or Stop Drowning Now