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Beginning Thursday and running through the end of June, the seminars have been offered for more than 20 years for lifeguards and residents to raise their awareness of what a swimmer in the process of drowning looks like.
“Our Drowning Prevention Seminars provide valuable information to help people quickly identify swimmer distress and respond,” said Commissioner Henry M. Kurban. “Attendees will gain knowledge on what to look for when someone is drowning. Drowning often occurs silently and may be misinterpreted as someone who is playing in the water. A distressed swimmer often cannot call out for help, because the body is concentrating on trying to breathe.”
The seminars are open to lifeguards and people who have supervision responsibilities for swimming activities, as well as members of the general public who are interested in increasing their knowledge. All participants who complete the program will be awarded a certificate of attendance.
“Previous participants have shared with us how much they valued the information they learned,” said Kurban. “They were able to identify individuals in distress in the early stages of drowning and were able to react quicker, thus helping to save lives.”
Seating for the seminars is limited. To make a reservation, contact the Department, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at 845-486-3480 or by e-mail to HealthInfo@DutchessNY.gov. Facilities interested in setting up a training session for lifeguards or members of a homeowners association may also contact the department.
The training schedule can be found at DutchessNY.gov, select the calendar icon.
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