News Summary

The Swim 1922 event in South Bend seeks to address drowning rates among minority youth by promoting water safety education. Organized by Sigma Gamma RHO Sorority, Inc. and USA Swimming, this initiative has already reached over 3,000 children. With alarming statistics showing African American children are three times more likely to drown, the program focuses on equipping local kids with vital swimming skills. Summer safety is paramount, especially with rising drownings in the Great Lakes. Swim 1922 aims to change the narrative and enhance awareness about water safety in the community.

Swim 1922 Initiative Ready to Make Waves in South Bend

South Bend is diving deep into an important initiative aimed at keeping our kids safe in the water. The Swim 1922 event took place at Washington High School, uniting community members and leaders in a mission to tackle the alarming rates of drowning among minority youth. This isn’t just a splash in the bucket; it’s a partnership between Sigma Gamma RHO Sorority, Inc. and USA Swimming that aims to educate and empower.

The Drowning Crisis

Did you know that African American children are an astonishing three times more likely to drown than their Caucasian counterparts? This crucial statistic highlights an urgent need for action, especially as our lakes and pools become popular summer hangouts. The program, with a special focus on African American and Hispanic children, is stepping up to ensure more kids have the skills necessary to stay safe around water.

Impacting Lives

Over the past five years, Swim 1922 has made waves by reaching more than 3,000 children. Despite this significant achievement, there is still work to be done, especially as we head into May, which is set to be a hallmark month for water safety education in South Bend. Co-Chair Keena Njoroge has pointed out that a staggering 70% of black children don’t have opportunities to swim or engage with water activities. That’s a challenge we can’t ignore.

Current Risks

28 drownings reported in the Great Lakes, including 10 in Lake Michigan alone. Lake Michigan, while beautiful, is notorious for its unpredictable currents, making it one of the deadliest locations for swimming. Wind patterns can create swift and sudden changes, making it vital for swimmers to be fully aware of their surroundings.

Swimming Safety Tips

The Surf Rescue Project offers some smart recommendations for anyone enjoying a day at the beach or pool. Always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, which can drastically improve survival rates. But not all life jackets are created equal; improperly fitted ones can pose their own drowning risks. It’s also wise to avoid using inflatables in lifeguarded areas due to the unpredictable nature of changing winds and currents.

Even relatively small waves can knock youngsters down and leave them struggling. Watch out for breaks over sandbars, as they can signify rip currents forming. Anyone swimming at state parks without lifeguards should pay attention to a color-coded flag system indicating water safety: green for calm, yellow for medium hazard, and red for high hazard. Ignoring these flags can lead to hefty fines of $500 to $1,000—yikes!

Be Water Wise

Flip, Float, and Follow. Swimming with a buddy is another smart move, greatly enhancing safety in case help is needed. Additionally, be mindful of piers, which can create structural currents that pull swimmers away from safety.

Misinformation and Skills Deficits

85% of Americans claiming to know how to swim, only about 56% can execute five essential swimming skills effectively. Ideally, swimmers should aim to be able to cover 100 yards without stopping. It’s also important to note that rip tides and rip currents are not the same; this common misunderstanding can lead to accidents if swimmers are unaware of the actual conditions.

Let’s make a splash together in South Bend and promote a culture of water safety far and wide!

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