This year marks the 100th Year of the Red Cross aquatics program. There is no better time to bring up safe swimming skills to master than summer in Las Vegas! Scorching temperatures will naturally drive parents and children to local pools and lakes. The Red Cross wants to make sure these children have basic skills when it comes to swimming.

The Red Cross and the City of Las Vegas are partnering up to offer Red Cross Aquatics courses for children at certain pools for only $5. Courses have already started so make sure to call and reserve a spot during the next class. This offer is only available at the following pools:

• Baker Pool (1100 E. St. Louis Ave | 702-229-1532)
• Doolittle Pool (1940 N. J St. | 702-229-6398)
• Carlos L. Martinez & Darrio J. Hall Family Pool at Gary Reece Freedom Park (889 N. Pecos | 702-229-1755)

The Red Cross aquatics program was first formed in 1914, and was part of the Red Cross Life Saving Corp. This program inspired one of the first life-saving stations to be made on Pablo Beach, Florida. Now, the Red Cross aquatics program teaches millions of people across the country basic water competency skills. Some of the criteria are:

• Step or jump into the water over your head and then return to the surface and float or tread water for one minute
• Turn around in a full circle and find an exit
• Swim at least 25 yards to an exit
• Exit from the water. If in a pool, be able to exit without using a ladder

Learn more about water safety skills and techniques here or call 1-800-RED-CROSS