Big Picture: Over 2,000 swimmers took advantage of free Learn-to-Swim lessons this summer at New York State Parks. The program, expanded under Governor Kathy Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative, tripled the number of participating facilities to 22, up from previous years.

Why It Matters: Drowning is the leading cause of death for kids ages 1-4. By increasing swimming lessons and water safety programs, the state aims to protect more children and encourage outdoor activities.

Key Numbers:

• 22 parks hosted lessons, up from seven.
• 40 new Water Safety Instructors certified.
• $150M investment in pools in underserved communities.

Quotes:

• Governor Kathy Hochul: “We are helping kids stay safe in the water and encouraging healthy outdoor activities.”
• Parks Commissioner Randy Simons: “Doubling our Learn-to-Swim program is a critical step in providing safe public swimming options for all New Yorkers.”

What’s Next:

• Doubling the number of pools and beaches offering water safety programs in 2024.
• Waiving pool entry fees and providing free sunscreen at State Park pools.

Bottom Line: NY’s expanded swim lessons and water safety initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance public health and safety while promoting outdoor activities across the state.