Central Frontenac Swim Program promotes water fun and safety

Jun 12, 2014

For her fourth year, certified swim instructor and lifeguard, Holly Dickinson, will be heading up the Central Frontenac Swim Program, which will take place at four public beaches in the township this summer.

The program offers accreditation in the Red Cross Swim Kids and Pre-School Program in two separate three-week sessions. The first runs from July 7 to July 25 and offers a choice of morning classes at Long Lake near Parham or afternoon classes at Big Clear lake in Arden. The second session runs from July 28 to August 15 with a choice of morning classes at Sharbot Lake or afternoon classes at Eagle Lake. The lessons, which cost $45 per session, are available to children 4 years and older and include instruction in swimming skills, water and sun safety, ice and water rescue and rescue breathing. Participants who successfully complete the program receive a badge for the level they have completed.

Katie Hawley will be assisting Holly for her second year. Dickinson said that program is an important way to promote confidence in youngsters around the water. “In this area known as the Land O'Lakes we are surrounded by so many lakes and so much water that it is really important that kids know how to be confident in and around it so that they can stay safe.” The program is geared both to youngsters new to the water and to children who already know how to swim. Regarding the latter, Dickinson said that the program teaches swimmers what they do not know, specifically how to react in stressful, unexpected or dangerous situations in and around the water. “The program prepares those who already know how to swim, how to swim or stay afloat in any unforeseen and unplanned situations. In high stress situations not only children but also adults who know how to swim can get into trouble simply because they get scared and panic. But when the swimmer can recall some kind of previous preparation that they have learned beforehand, they are much more able to deal with the situation.”

Dickinson cited the 2014 Drowning Report, which states that incidents of drowning in Ontario have increased by 8% since the previous report and most accidents involve water craft accidents, and the absence of life jackets, i.e. situations where people and children are unprepared. Along those lines Dickinson said children are taught an in-water safety tactic called a “help huddle”, which instructs them to huddle together in a group to stay warm and to conserve energy by linking arms and holding their knees into their chests. The program also teaches disoriented entries into the water, which simulate accidental falls into water. Participants learn how to somersault into the water and how to surface and swim back to a safe place.

While safety is a key element of the program, Dickinson said that the focus is also on fun, fitness and confidence. Dickinson said that for youngsters who tend to be fearful, she and Katie use positive and encouraging reinforcement and utilize numerous games and activities that make learning to swim fun. They also provide one-on-one time for children who need special attention. Children who may not show a desire or affinity for swimming often benefit from swimming in a social situation where there are other children around.

For more skilled swimmers the program also offers the Life Saving Society's Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross accreditations for children 13 years and older, which focus primarily on water rescues and first aid. These advanced programs are preparation for further life guard courses. For more information about the program or to register call 613-279-2935 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.