THOMASVILLE, GA (WALB) - About two weeks ago a two year old girl slipped into her family's pool in Thomas County. Unfortunately by the time her mother found her, it was already too late. She died a few days later at a hospital.
Pools, whether they be private or public, can be dangerous if the proper precautions are not taken. At the YMCA in Thomasville, parents can start teaching their kids to swim before they can even walk. "We have infant parent swim lessons that teaches our infants how to float from their stomach to their back until help can arrive," said YMCA Branch Manager Greer Cox.
The YMCA always has life guards on duty. Cox says many swimming venues do not have that luxury. "Whether it's at the pool, or it's at a pond, or maybe you're at a beach, always keep an eye on your children."
Cox says if you do take your infants out for a swim, make sure they are kept as close as possible. "Have an arms length with your infants so that your are able to grab ahold of them if necessary."
Whether you're a nine month old infant, or a 90 year old grandparent, Cox says it's always a good time to learn how to swim. Swimming is not a only a great way to have fun. "Swimming is probably one of the safest forms of exercise that anyone can do."
The YMCA is offering swim lessons to children and adults all summer long. Cox says the best way to prevent drowning, is to learn how to swim. The Thomasville YMCA outdoor pool opens to the public May 21st.
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