Press Release

British Swim School Launches Educational Campaign for National Water Safety Month

Nation’s Leading ‘Learn to Swim’ Franchise Warns of Dangers of Water Safety ‘Myths’

VIRGINIA BEACH – (May 15, 2022) – British Swim School, the nation’s leading “learn to swim” franchise company recently launched an educational campaign during National Water Safety Month. The campaign, called “Learn the Myths of Water Safety,” is meant to dispel the most common inaccuracies about water safety while reducing the number of accidental drownings in the United States and Canada.

“We hear similar statements and beliefs from parents all the time — which is why a critical part of my job is to really help educate and decrease these misconceptions about water safety,” said Melissa McGarvey, Aquatics Director for British Swim School. “We are excited about this campaign because it will educate the community and, hopefully, save lives!”

Each year, nearly 4,000 people across the nation die from drowning. While parental supervision is always the number one safety measure, research shows that participation in formal swim programs, such as those offered by British Swim School, can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% among children who are most at risk for deaths caused by drowning.

Learn The Myths of Water Safety Educational Campaign

“I will be able to hear my child struggle if there’s a problem. It’s ok to read my book while the kids play in the pool.”

Why this is a myth:

• Drowning is usually silent! It’s not like it’s portrayed in television or movies where a child is splashing and screaming for help.

• Drowning is fast and can happen in less than one minute.

“The kiddie pool is a safe place for my children to play on their own.”

Why this is a myth:

• Drownings can occur in less than two inches water. For this reason, no body of water should be considered safe.

• Parents should always keep a close eye on children when in any kind of backyard or kiddie pool.

“My kids don’t really need swim lessons because I am always watching.”

Why this is a myth:

• Nearly 70% of drownings for kids ages four and under happen during “non-swim” times; for example, when a child falls into a pool, pond, or lake.

• Proper swim lessons can reduce drowning by up to 88% and can equip kids with skills to survive water accidents.

“You don’t really have to worry about kids drowning when there are lots of people around.”

Why this is a myth:

• Since drowning is silent, it is very possible for a child to drown in a crowded pool without someone noticing.

• There is no safety in numbers when it comes to drowning, so parents should always appoint a “water watcher” who keeps two undistracted eyes on kids at all times. That means no cell phones or alcohol.

British Swim School has been dedicated to teaching water survival skills for more than 40 years by offering a three-part curriculum, teaching infants, children, and adults of all ages the skills needed for water acclimation, water survival, and stroke development. Its mission — ensure that every person, regardless of age or ability, has the opportunity to become a safe and happy swimmer.

About British Swim School

British Swim School, the nation’s most established swim school franchise with over 40 years in business believes that every individual, regardless of age or ability, should have the opportunity to become a safe and happy swimmer. Offering lessons for babies, children, and adults, the brand is dedicated to its mantra, “Survival of the Littlest,” focusing first on the survival skills needed to survive a water accident, then moving on to stroke development and more advanced skills. Not only does British Swim School give peace of mind to countless families who seek the essential life skill the brand offers their children, but the purpose-driven franchise offers an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs who seek a fulfilling business venture with a sound foundation, low investment, and easily scalable model. Part of the Buzz Franchise Brands family, British Swim School currently operates over 215 schools across the United States and Canada.