More than 2,300 children across Lichfield are learning potentially life-saving water safety skills this week as part of a national drowning prevention campaign. Special sessions are running from 13 to 20 June at Lichfield Leisure Centre and Burntwood Leisure Centre, with age-appropriate activities designed to keep young swimmers safe both in and out of the water.
The Royal Life Saving Society UK is leading the initiative as summer approaches and more families head to pools, rivers, lakes and coastal areas. Younger children will master the basics like floating on their back and building water confidence, while older swimmers will learn what to do if they spot someone in trouble and how to get help fast.
Councillor Andy Smith said the week is a timely reminder that water safety education is just as crucial as learning to swim itself. "These are skills that could one day help save their own life or someone else's," he said.
Parents wanting more information about swimming lessons and water safety in Lichfield can visit Active Lichfield's website for full details and availability.