The GLSA participates at the
US National Water Safety
Action Plan
USA 31.08.2022. The Greek Lifesaving Sports
Association (GLSA) offered expertise for the development of the U.S.
National Water Safety Action Plan, after invitation by the International Drowning Prevention Alliance.
The GLSA contributed to all 6 areas that the Action Plan requires expertise
and suggestions. These include barriers, entrapment and electrical safety, data,
public health surveillance, life jackets, personal flotation devices and other
flotation, rescue, CPR, supervision/lifeguards, water safety, water competency
and swimming lessons. These surveys will help inform the deliberations of the
Blue-Ribbon Panel who will assist the Steering Committee in finalizing the
plan.
The GLSA President Dr. Stathis Avramidis, made 4 suggestions that would hopefully enhance the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan: (1) The inclusion of water safety measures for people with epileptic seizures. (2) The inclusion of people with disabilities in the various lifesaving programs. (3) The encouragement of aquatic facilities and lifeguards to participate in lifesaving sport championships as means of team cohesion, physical fitness and emergency aquatic readiness. (4) The adoption of best practices and programs that have been successfully implemented elsewhere.
