STORY IDEA OF THE WEEK
Thursday, June 21, 2018
1:15 p.m. – World’s Largest Swimming Lesson
Wadeview Neighborhood Center Pool, 2177 South Summerlin Avenue
Earlier this week, many media outlets covered the story of a four-year-old girl being reunited with Orlando Fire Department firefighter Todd Tinetti, who saved her from a near drowning at a water park. The story was a reminder of how important it is for children to learn how to swim.
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages one to four, and is the second leading cause of death for children ages five to 14. Participation in formal swimming lessons reduces the risk of drowning, which is why the City of Orlando is committed to teaching children to swim.
The city is again inviting residents to participate in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson on Thursday, June 21. The event brings together tens of thousands of individuals from hundreds of communities around the globe who all participate in the same 30-minute lesson over the course of a 24-hour period to raise awareness about drowning and the fact that swimming is a vital life-saving skill that every child should learn.
The free lesson will be offered at five community pools in the City of Orlando:
Northwest Neighborhood Center Pool, 3955 W.D. Judge Drive
Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center Pool, 1745 Bruton Boulevard
College Park Neighborhood Center Pool, 2411 Elizabeth Avenue
John Long Pool at the Colonialtown Neighborhood Center, 1218 North Fern Creek Avenue
Wadeview Neighborhood Center Pool, 2177 South Summerlin Avenue
On the 21st at 1:15 p.m. at the Wadeview Neighborhood Center Pool, City of Orlando Aquatics Supervisor Denise Moore, will be available for interviews about the World’s Largest Swim Lesson and the importance of teaching children to swim.
