Dixon lifeguards jump for joy at the thought of protecting residents under their watch. Photo courtesy of the City of Dixon

DIXON, CA (MPG) - When it comes to water safety, Dixon Recreation supervisor Kyla Schnitter quotes the Red Cross.

"Anywhere there is water, there is a risk of drowning, especially for young children," Schnitter said, detailing the upcoming city aquatics program for summer 2024. "Access to a community pool with swim lessons and vigilant lifeguard staff can mitigate the risk of drowning through educating children and parents on how to be safe in and around water."

Babies as young as 6 months old are dipped into the Dixon pool, beginning with the Parent & Toddler Swim Class offered this summer.

Here is the Dixon Parks and Recreation Program Lifeguard Team of 2023. Photo courtesy of the City of Dixon

"Swim lessons for children under three have proved beneficial in not only decreasing the risk of drowning but also providing physical benefits like increased coordination and balance through the support of the water," Schnitter said.

The recreation supervisor said the parent participation class teaches caregivers how to move safely with their child in the water through various songs, games and activities.

Public information officer Madeline Graf breaks down the different aquatic classes, beginning with lap swim classes offered in group and individual lessons.

"Our competition pool has eight lanes, kickboards, pull buoys and water aerobics equipment available for use upon request," Graf said. "What's new this year is that the community can view our full schedule and make class reservations in our new online portal."

Dixon Community Pool offers aquatics for all ages from toddlers to seniors. Photo courtesy of the City of Dixon

The city aquatics program also offers water aerobics, beginning in June.

"The schedule will be posted in the coming weeks," Graf said.

On the other end of the infant spectrum of swimming, aquatics is good for seniors because of its low impact, according to Schnitter.

"The water reduces pressure on joints, bones, and muscles. Aquatic exercise benefits anyone with arthritis, joint injuries or limited mobility," Schnitter said.

Overall, aquatics is excellent for all ages in between, according to the recreation director, who notes at least three reasons to exercise in water. First, it provides whole-body workouts with water's built-in resistance.

"It improves cardiovascular health since swimming works the heart and lungs," Schnitter said, adding that it also improves mental health because it helps regulate the breathing pattern. "The color, sound, and feel of water can lower pulse rate and increase feelings of calmness, known as the blue mind effect."

Additionally, Schnitter said that being on a swim team can improve life-long skills such as self-motivation, time management, communication and teamwork. Those who just want to lounge around in the water with no instruction at all can enjoy Dixon City Recreation Swim that beings on June 10 and runs until Aug. 4 from 1 to 4 p.m. every Thursday and Saturday.

"Swimming is a great way for children to socialize and stay active," Schnitter said. "Recreation swim allows kids to interact through engagement with familiar water games like Sharks and Minnows, Colors and Marco Polo."

Graf said no matter what age you are, the variety of programs at Pat Grannuci Aquatics Center offers many opportunities.

"During the summer, the pool is open seven days a week and it is a great place to come and beat the heat or get in daily exercise," Graf said.

For the full aquatics program schedule, visit cityofdixon.us/rec.