British School Bans Swimming Goggles

In an act of truly lopsided logic, a British school has banned the use of goggles in swimming classes, claiming that the protective eyewear could cause injuries. Do they have a point or are they merely treading water? Read on but don’t get too wet.

According to news sources, after receiving advice from the British Association of Advisors and Lecturers in Physical Education, St. Sidwells Primary School in Exeter, England, has decided to allow goggles only for children who have an “adverse reaction to chemicals in water.” The Association states in literature that was distributed to schools:

“Head teachers should inform parents…that goggles can be a hazard and cause permanent eye injury. Wet plastic is very slippery and frequent, incorrect or unnecessary adjustment or removal of them, by pulling them away from the eyes instead of sliding them over the forehead, can lead to them slipping from the pupil's grasp with the hard plastic causing severe injury.”

Tracy Brock, a parent whose 11-year-old daughter attends the school, said:

“The new rules have gone too far. My children have worn goggles for years and there's never been a problem before. Part of growing up is playing taking risks. Children are being wrapped up in cotton wool now.”

As a result of the new “goggle ruling”, many parents have pulled their children out of swimming classes. They feel the new rule is ridiculous and without merit. Consider truly being on the safe side by offering swimming classes in an empty pool. That way, no drowning will ever occur. Problems could arise if some students see water in the pool and dive in, but whose problem is that? Better yet, don’t offer any classes at all! Are the safety risks here really skewed or is it just the logic behind it? What do you think about this?