Olympian Rowdy Gaines Advocates for Swim Safety to Prevent Drowning This Summer [Video]

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Drowning is preventable and yet, it happens every day. In fact, drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 4 in the U.S.¹ As the risk for drowning increases during swim season, Step Into Swim, a non-profit initiative of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), is empowering families to practice proper swim safety.

“It’s heartbreaking to learn about families who have lost a child to drowning. Their pain is preventable,” said Rowdy Gaines, three-time Olympic Gold Medalist and Vice President of Partnerships and Development at PHTA who leads Step Into Swim. “For parents looking to protect their child in the water, swim lessons are a necessary and lifesaving tool that instill confidence and allow them to thrive.”

Step Into Swim recommends prioritizing these drowning prevention tips:

• Swim Lessons:Formal swim lessons from a qualified instructor can reduce the …