Learning to swim is an important life-saving skill that all individuals should have. Swim lessons/instruction are a part of the process.  

Just like in our homes, the places children learn to swim should practice water safety and Layers of Protection.

Here are swim instruction safety standards to look for and questions to ask. 

1

Are all staff CPR, First-Aid, & Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certified by an external credentialing source such as the American Red Cross or equivalent?

2

Is there an AED on site?

3

What size is the class and are the children grouped by similar age?  One-on-one is safest and provides the most swimming time with the instructor but might not always be an option.  A maximum group class size of four students is advisable.

4

Is there a Certified Lifeguard on duty in an elevated chair?  Is that lifeguard only filing that single role without other distractions or duties?

5

How does the facility certify their swim instructors, or do they even do so at all?  Is there water safety certification from a credentialing third party, such as Water Safety Instructor from the American Red Cross.

6

Does the program provide a life-saving skill in a reasonable time frame (weeks/months vs years).