As a leader in water safety, the YMCA teaches more than 1 million kids throughout the United States how to swim every year. We believe swimming and other water-based activities promote youth development and can be lifelong pursuits for staying healthy. However, drowning poses a serious threat to children nationwide. It is the leading cause of accidental death for children one to four years of age.
Your Naperville Ys offer programs that teach children (and adults) safe ways to enjoy aquatic activities. Now is a perfect time to ensure kids have the skills to avoid dangerous situations in pools, lakes and other bodies of water.
Follow these tips for a safe and fun summer:
1. Appoint a “water watcher” to watch children during social gatherings at or near pools. This person should maintain constant visual contact with the children.
2. Establish and enforce rules. Do not allow children near drains, pipes or other openings. Do not allow children to play breath-holding games.
3. Maintain caution around bodies of water, even if you don’t plan on swimming. Cold temperatures, currents and underwater hazards pose a danger if someone falls into the water.
4. If you have an above-ground or inflatable pool, make sure to remove access ladders and secure the safety cover whenever the pool is not in use.
The Naperville YMCAs provide swimming lessons for all ages, levels and abilities. Learning to swim is a life-long skill that not only helps keep children and adults safe around water but also helps promote a healthy lifestyle.
Our programs incorporate fun water sports and games to help children become comfortable in the water while learning this important life skill.
The Y’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility are integrated into every lesson and our pools are staffed with certified swim instructors and lifeguards.
Feel free to contact us to learn more or sign up for swimming lessons at www.fryymca.org.
