Six Tips to Keep in Mind for National Water Safety Month

May is National Water Safety Month. When the weather starts to heat up, the pools, lakes, oceans, rivers and other bodies of water start calling! While swimming can be a very enjoyable activity this summer, it is important to remind all parents and caregivers of the importance of water safety. Greater Somerset County YMCA is sharing these six tips on how children can stay safe in and around the water.

Tip # 1: Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water.

Teaching your children to be water smart is the first step in water safety – be sure they understand the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water.

Tip # 2: Never swim alone without a water watcher.

When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions.

Tip # 3: Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water.

Whether it’s bath time or taking a dip in a pool or waterfront, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.

Tip # 4: Don’t engage in breath holding activities.

Both adults and children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can be dangerous.

Tip # 5: Wear a life jacket.

Inexperienced or non-swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while in or around the water.

Tip # 6: Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water.

If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked.

FREE Safety Around Water Classes at a Branch Near You!

The Safety Around Water Program at participating branches introduces non-swimmers, who have never taken YMCA swimming lessons, to the water. This program equips kids with critical life skills that encourage safety and help the kids to be confident in and around water. A certified instructor teaches children two sets of skills that will reduce the risk of drowning and give them confidence in and around water. A typical session includes:

Exercises to help children adjust to being in the water
Instruction in “Jump, Push, Turn, Grab” and “Swim, Float, Swim,” two skill sets children can use if they unexpectedly find themselves in the water
An activity that teaches children about specific safety topics such as pool rules and boating safety
A fun game to encourage comfort and activity around water

Each swim lesson includes a handout for parents and caregivers with additional water safety tips for kids.

MAY SWIM EVALUATIONS

New Swim Students are required to be evaluated prior to registration for lessons. Stop by in May to participate in Swim Evaluations. Non-members can receive a membership tour too*!

*Please bring a government-issued photo ID for entry into the facility.

*Ask us about our Teen and Adult lessons.