THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
Published: April 22, 2009 6:00 a.m.

Swimmers demonstrated their proficiencies

Tustin-based Swim for Life Foundation and Blue Buoy Swim School conducted a water safety open house Sunday at the swim school. Kids of all ages were invited to participate in the effort to effort to reduce drowning incidents.

Olympian Janet Evans Kicks Off the Event

Three-time Olympian Janet Evans helped kick off the activities. Certificates were awarded to participants when they demonstrated various swimming proficiencies. These proficiencies included young children who can jump in the water, find balance and swim back to the side of the pool; back float for 60 seconds without assistance; swim across a 20-foot pool without assistance; and swim the length of a 60-foot pool without assistance.

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Members enjoy Water Safety Event

John and Cameron Mykannen took to the pool for Sunday’s water safety event.

More advanced swimmers and parents tried for a Swim for Life Challenge certificate for swimming non-stop for distances up to a mile.

88% Reduction in Drowning Risks

“The National Institute of Health just released a study showing that participation in formal swimming lessons was associated with an 88 percent reduction in the risk of drowning in children between the ages of 1 to 4,” said Johnny Johnson, Swim for Life Foundation founder and president and co-owner of Blue Buoy Swim School.

Raises Money for The Swim for Life Foundation

“Kids Swimming for Kids” raises money for the “Safer 3,” a water safety campaign developed by the Swim for Life Foundation. It calls for “safer water” (guarding against unauthorized entry to a pool or spa by a child), “safer kids” (advocating constant adult supervision and swim lessons), and “safer response” (preparation for the possibility of a drowning incident by learning and reviewing CPR).

At the local level, the Safer 3 message has been supported by the Orange County Fire Authority.