If you have ever felt like you should have more life-saving skills when it comes to being around the water, or have kids who like to play in the water, then a new course offered by the Castlegar and District Community Complex may be just the thing to help you out.
The Family Swim to Survive course will be offered for free on Family Day, Feb. 12 at the Complex pool.
Participants will learn safety skills for being in the water and around the water like first aid, self-rescue and rescue of others.
“That is super important, especially around this area where we have tons of water around us,” said Vanessa Bloodoff, aquatic and fitness programmer for the Castlegar Community Complex.
Swim to Survive courses have been taught at the pool before, but not specifically geared for a family setting.
“They learn how to roll into the water, swim a certain distance, tread water to keep themselves above the water for a certain amount of time,” explained Bloodoff. “They end up getting a certificate at the end.”
“It is really important for this area,” she added. “We don’t have lifeguards at Millenium Ponds, and when we have gone there before to teach lessons, it is crazy to see how many parents are not watching their children. We want people to have that knowledge and realize how fast something can happen.”
Promotional materials for the course describe it as: “The same skills and principles as Swim to Survive but is designed for adults as well as children, and allows family members to participate in the Swim to Survive program together. The program is designed to create a comfortable learning environment for families, some of whom might be new to Canada or may have no experience with survival swimming and water safety.”
The course will take place from 2 to 4 p.m.
Register before Feb. 1 to reserve your spot by calling the Complex at 250-365-3386.
The pool is also open to the public that day for a special Family Day swim from 1:30 -4:30 p.m.