What is the primary goal of the American Red Cross Swimming and Water Safety program?

The primary goal of the American Red Cross Swimming and Water Safety program is to teach safety in and around water. This focus emphasizes the importance of understanding water conditions, recognizing potential hazards, and developing skills that can prevent drowning and other water-related incidents. By prioritizing safety education, the program aims to ensure that individuals are not only skilled swimmers but also aware of how to safely enjoy aquatic environments.

While fostering competitive swimming or preparing individuals for lifeguarding roles are valuable aspects of water-related activities, they are not the central theme of this particular program. The emphasis on safety is crucial because it builds a foundation for responsible behavior in and around water, which ultimately helps to reduce the number of water-related accidents and fatalities in the community.