Drowning is the number one killer of infants and toddlers, and Marion County has just announced it’s taking steps to change that by offering free swimming lessons.

Data shows that 1,000 children drown each year, and Florida tops the nation in drowning deaths for children under 5 years of age.

But the Marion County Health Department says in just eight days, their instructors can teach your child to swim for his or her life.

The free lessons begin Monday, July 21, at Hampton Aquatic Center in Ocala.

A separate eight-day session begins August 4.

Children ages 3 to 17 are eligible, but space is limited.

Call the Florida Department of Health in Marion County at 352-629-0137 and ask for Megan Reimer at extension 2084 or Liz Cruce at extension 2117.

The two eight-day sessions are scheduled for July 21–31, and August 4–14. Lessons will take place at the Hampton Aquatic Center, 1510 NW 4th Street in Ocala.