Some Queens kids are ready to dive in to their summer activities, literally. NY1's Shannan Ferry filed the following report.
Summer is on its, way and these kids are making a big splash when it comes to water safety.
"I've been learning to swim, and it's helpful by teaching you so in case of an emergency, you can get out of the water quickly," said one young swimmer.
The Swim Strong Foundation held its fourth annual Water Safety Awareness Day at Far Rockaway High School Saturday.
Instructors gave free swimming lessons, and a member of the U.S. Coast Guard demonstrated rescue techniques.
"They taught me how to breathe underwater and how to float," said another.
Swim Strong is a nonprofit organization created to save lives through swimming education.
Organizers say about 10 people die due to drowning in the United States every day.
"95 percent of the drowning deaths are preventable. Swimming is also not only a great life skill, but it's the only activity that really is life-saving," said Shawn Slevin, who is the founder of Swim Strong.
Participants also learned surfing safety. Organizers say it's especially important since the sport is growing in popularity in the Rockaways.
"For most people, surfing is when your feet are on the board and you're riding the wave. That's 3 percent of the activity. And the rest is how you navigate, you know, yourself in the ocean with the board," said Nick Lynn of the Surfrider Foundation's NYC Chapter.
"Just in case anything happens, and it's like certain circumstances, I'll go to the beach or something, I'll know how to swim and tread water," said a third swimmer.
City beaches are set to open on Memorial Day. Outdoor public pools will open up again in June.