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SAFETY AROUND WATER
As part of the Y’s commitment to reduce drowning rates and keep kids safe in and around the water, the Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA provides at low cost swim instruction and water safety to children from under-served communities.
Who
SAW is for all children, but it especially targets minority and underserved populations who are at higher risk for drowning.
Why
- 60% of drownings occur within 10 feet of safety.
- 88% of children who drown are under some form of supervision.
- According to the CDC, drowning is the second most common cause of accidental death among children 5-14
- Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4.
Impact
Children in low-income areas of our city are generally not exposed to swimming and water safety.
What to expect
This 5-day/ 3 week course, taught by 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 water.
- Instruction in “Jump, Push, Turn, Grab” and ” Swim, Float, Swim.” These are two skill sets children can use if they unexpectedly finds themselves in the water.
- An activity that teachers children about the specific safety topics such as pool rules and boating safety.
- A fund game to encourage comfort and activity around water.
Upcoming Group Sessions
Safety Video Tips
Visit our Aquatics page for more options and to register for other swim lessons, swim team, masters classes, one-on-one lessons, birthday parties and more!