Knowing how to swim isn't just out of fun for the summer, it's also important to recognize that not everyone has always had the opportunity to learn to swim. This is why it is so important to recognize, in order to save lives around the water-- swimming lessons should be available for everyone.

"Only 46% of Black and 47% of Latine children had swimming lessons, compared to 72% of white children," according to a parent survey (Northwestern/Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago). Studies show there is a generational influence, if the parent doesn't know how to swim, most likely, the child will not learn either.

To help break this cycle, the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas is stepping in with the goal to eliminate childhood drowning (CDC says drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4). The Y partners with apartment complexes across the metroplex to offer free Safety Around Water lessons (SAW) to children who otherwise wouldn't have access. Last year, the SAW program served 5,834 swimmers!

On Ask the Expert, Jen Pewitt joined the KRLD Afternoon News. She is the Vice President of the YMCA Metropolitan Dallas.