Accidental drownings are always a major concern this time of the year during pool season, especially for African American children, with the drowning rate being substantially higher. Eyewitness News spoke with one local swim club trying to cut down on some startling statistics while teaching vital lessons along the way.

Thursday was a hot and steamy summer day, perfect for swimming lessons.

The Nile Swim Club in Yeadon is offering a free swim clinic to combat childhood drowning. It’s the country’s only black-owned and operated private swim club, born out of segregation.

“It was created 60 years ago. Six families got together because they were denied entry to other swim clubs in the area, bought this property and created a swim club that’s open for anyone and everyone to come and swim,” Lisa Ivery said.

This year, the historic club is starting something new, something life-saving for the children — the No Child Will Drown In Our Town initiative.

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