Drowning is a leading cause of death among children in the US. The notion that everyone must learn how to swim is admirable and ideal. The reality is swimming is not the only answer to save oneself in a water-based emergency. The ability to stay afloat is more effective at conserving energy; allowing time to rest and swim to safety, back-float to safety or await rescue.
Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related deaths among children ages 1-4
For children ages 5–14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes
8,000 nonfatal drownings (where victims survive) occur each year, which can result in serious injuries such as brain damage or permanent disability