Drowning is not as easily identifiable as it is portrayed in television or the movies. Drowning most often occurs silently when a distressed swimmer cannot call out for help because they are struggling to breathe.
The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) has provided Drowning Prevention Seminars since 1990 to help lifeguards and residents learn what a swimmer in the process of drowning looks like.
These seminars are open to lifeguards and persons who have supervision responsibilities for swimming activities, as well as members of the general public who are interested in increasing their knowledge regarding this important public health concern. All participants who successfully complete the program will be awarded a certificate of attendance.
The presentation will offer guidance for supervising swimmers, how to identify swimmers in distress, an informative video on drowning victim recognition. Time will also be allocated to discuss lifeguard duties and responsibilities as they relate to DBCH regulations.
Seating for the seminars is limited. Residents can reserve a seat by e-mailing HealthInfo@DutchessNY.gov or calling the Department, Monday-Friday from 9AM to 5PM, at (845) 486-3470. Facilities interested in setting up a training session for lifeguards or members of a homeowners’ association may also contact the Department.
The Department kindly asks that any requests for information be directed to the Department, not the seminar sites.
All seminars are free and open to the public.
Pre-registration is required. RSVP at 845-486-3470 at least 2 days prior to the event.
