“The Southern Maryland Chapter American Red Cross is co-sponsoring with the College of Southern Maryland a presentation by Dr. Tom Griffith on the subject of Shallow Water Blackout at the College of Southern Maryland, La Plata Campus,  November 11, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.,” Said Debora Storey, Chapter Health and Safety Director.

“Dr. Griffith is a nationally recognized expert on the subject of water safety.  Much of his research was conducted during his 25 years at Penn State University as Director of Aquatics and Safety Officer for Athletics. He has been involved in all phases of aquatics and water safety for 30 years and has published more than 300 articles,” Storey continued.

Shallow Water Blackout addresses the dangers of the practice of hyperventilation to improve underwater endurance for divers and swimmers or during the process of jumping up and down in the water and holding your  breath a person can  inadvertently breathe in a manner similar to hyperventilating, causing a low carbon dioxide level in his blood. Then, stay under too long because they do not get the normal sensation to breathe until it is too late.  Storey explained that each year deaths occur due to this practice.  These deaths are not the typical downing that we identify with.  Lifeguards and other water safety personnel many times are not trained to recognize these practices.  Experienced swimmers die in shallow water or pools because the practice disrupts the body’s balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide.  As a result the swimmer, who believes is improving their  “underwater time,” is actually placing themselves at risk. 

The two hour presentation explains in simple terms the metabolic process that occurs and results in death. “Deaths will continue if we do not increase the awareness of the deadly risk imposed by hyperventilation and breath-holding,” Story stated.

Come hear what Aquatics International and Michael Phelps, US Olympic Swimmer, have named one of “the 25 most powerful people in the world of aquatics.” His presentations are dynamic, informative, educational and inspiring.

The event is open to the public – Water Safety and Lifeguard Instructors, Swim Team Coaches, Professional Health Care Workers, Pool Mangers, Lifeguards and all interested in water safety. 
Best of all – Dr. Griffith will be here locally in Southern Maryland.  Seating is limited.  There is a $10 registration fee.  Please pre register on our Web site Http://SouthernMaryland.RedCross.org  .  Call the chapter for group registration specials, sponsorship opportunities, or for more information, 888-276-2766.