An estimated 4,000 people die by drowning a year across the U.S. Calling it a public health crisis, a coalition of experts this summer released the first-ever, 10-year action plan to reduce drownings.
It urges action from all levels of government and calls for more public pools and more access to swimming lessons. While pools come first to mind, drownings can occur almost anywhere water collects.
The report also acknowledges the history and racism responsible for disproportionate rates of drowning among people of color.
The joy of swimming, for decades, was a pastime and fitness routine open only to whites.
In the 1960s, many towns across the South filled or destroyed their public pools rather than allow Black Americans to swim in them.
With deadly consequences – that linger today. We'll discuss water safety and swimming.
Host:
- Amy Juravich, 89.7 NPR News Midday Host and assistant program director
Guests:
- Marissa Angellatta, manager of Columbus Recreation & Parks Aquatics
- Adam Katchmarchi, executive director for the National Drowning Prevention Alliance
- Brian Botzman, head coach of Unified Aquatics Club in Columbus
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