The Swim Vietnam program in Hoi An

As you will be aware, the Vietnam Swans are active supporters of swimming initiatives in Vietnam to reduce the number of drownings (click here for more information). In Vietnam, more children die from drowning than road accidents.

This afternoon, Swannies’ player, Tim Clements was at the beach in Vung Tau. He sent the following message:

Just gave CPR to a kid on the beach but he died. Was too far gone in the water. Chilling reminder of the lack of awareness with respect to CPR and swimming in this country. Made me realise that the Swim Vietnam thing the Vietnam Swans contribute to is so important.

Do they teach CPR in it? Or just swimming? When I got to the kid, they were trying to push his stomach.

Mick Johnston replied,

That is so sad. Imagine how you would have felt if you didn’t have a clue what to do. The reason the Vietnam Swans chose to support the Tri Bob /Swim Vietnam programn is because it has the AustSwim Train the Trainer course that includes Red Cross CPR and other things for two days. The Hoi An Vietnamese Red Cross instructor knows his stuff and is a good communicator.

The more we can do to improve the situation, the better.

The Vietnam Swans recognise and applaud Tim’s courage at such a critical moment. While his intervention did not save the young boy’s life, his action has certainly educated a few onlookers who may be in a position to save someone else’s life next time.

For more information on Swim Vietnam, click here.

On 10-11 September 2011, the Vietnam International Triathlon will be held in Hoi An. A percentage of the proceeds shall be donated to Swim Vietnam.