Over 2,000 swimmers took advantage of free Learn-to-Swim lessons at New York State Parks this summer with 22 facilities, including Watkins Glen State Park, hosting lessons across the state – tripling the number of facilities from previous years. The expanded Learn-to-Swim program is part of the Governor’s NY SWIMS initiative which included doubling the number of water safety instruction programs offered at State Park pools and beaches in 2024. This builds on the Governor’s $150 million investment to support pools in underserved communities – New York’s biggest investment in swimming since the New Deal.
Recognizing that drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, NY SWIMS expanded the State Parks Learn-to-Swim program to help more New Yorkers swim. The American Red Cross provides free training to State Park lifeguards to obtain Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification. This support has allowed for the certification of 40 additional Water Safety Instructors this season. Lifeguard staff who currently possess WSI certification also help provide more opportunities for swim lessons. The 2024 season saw swimming lesson programs at 22 state parks across the state this summer.
“We are continuing to increase access to pools and safe swimming opportunities for New York children and their families,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “By tripling the amount of swimming classes offered at State Parks, we are helping kids learn how to stay safe in the water and encouraging New Yorkers to embrace healthy outdoor activities.”
To improve swimming options and experiences at State Parks, part of the Governor’s NY SWIMS initiative created more swim instruction opportunities to help keep kids protected at the pool or beach. This included:
- Doubling the number of pools and beaches that offer water safety instruction programs in 2024 – from 7 to 17 – phasing in the additional beaches and pools in future years.
- Offering free sunscreen at State Park pools to help families stay safe in the sun and enjoy the outdoors.
- Waiving pool entry fees this summer at swimming pools located at State Parks throughout New York.
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