SWIMSAFER Week – 20 – 26 November 2023
In a groundbreaking partnership, SWIM Australia and AUSTSWIM have united to shed light on a crucial issue—water safety for children under five.
SWIMSAFER Weeks aim is to reduce the belief that children are too young to start water familiarisation lessons, particularly for the vulnerable 0-5 years age group.
SWIMSAFER Week is also a time for parents to re-educate themselves about the importance of learning to swim as one of the top drowning prevention measures. By coming together as a community, including parents, swim schools, teachers, and water safety organisations, we can make a substantial impact on water safety awareness and work towards the ultimate goal of empowering children with the knowledge and skills they need to be safe and confident in the water.
Did you know:
– 41% of Australian children are currently enrolled in swimming lessons
– 43% of parents believe their children are too young to start
– 54% of parents are not confident in their children’s ability to navigate a water emergency
Tragically, last year 16 children aged 0-4 in Australia lost their lives to drowning. Learning to swim is a significant preventive measure.
We encourage more Australian families to enrol their children in swimming lessons to learn invaluable water safety skills.
So, how can you contribute? Besides ensuring your children are receiving regular swimming lessons, you can help by spreading the word about the importance of swimming as a fundamental life skill. Inform your friends and family about the essential nature of learning to swim.
Visit swimsafer.org.au for more information and to view free resources available to parents.
