"LEARN TO SWIM” WEEK.

Taranaki Daily News, 16 February 1931, Page 4

"LEARN TO SWIM” WEEK.

To-day will see the commencement in Taranaki of a, most comprehensive effort. Its purpose is to stimulate swiin, ming among the pupils of the schools in Taranaki and there can bo no question as to the value of tuition to that end. The present stnumer has had its record of useful lives sacrificed in efforts to save those unable to swim, or if able to swim not sufficiently trained to be aware of what to do when an emergency arose. The same might be said of any summer holiday season, to &ay nothing of the manifold instances in which a capacity to swim may prevent an accident in the course of an ordinary day’s »vork or pleasure becoming a tragedy, Apart fr.-.m the aspect of safety for self and others, swimming can be recommended :-.h one of the most invigorating pastimes for young people. In quite a number of schools this aas been recognised by the authorities and bathing facilities are afforded- There are indications that a higher standard of health can be observed in schools s > equipped, and there io reason to hope for further efforts in extending their number. So fat as the “learn to swim”

week in Taranaki is concerned it is a ■well organised movement and -vill be carried out by voluntary instructors, who are giving fully of their time in the liope°of benefiting the young people of the province. The only additional factor required to ensure its success is that parents and friends of the children shall so-operate with those in charge of this week’s instruction. Indications are that this co-operation will be forthcoming, and if so a great benefit to the pupils will assuredly result.