It is estimated that 37% of Americans either cannot swim or are terrified of the water. Of the remaining who do know how to swim, it is estimated that as few as 3% can swim more than 500 meters non-stop.
Sadly, a recent ferry accident in October resulted in 39 deaths when more than 100 passengers fell overboard.
So, if you (or your child) cannot tread water for an hour or swim 500 meters non-stop, please, for the sake of your loved ones, learn how to swim, and wear those life jackets on board if swimming is a life skill whose class you missed.
