YMCA Swim Instructor with a Child

Staying Safe During National Drowning Prevention Month

At the YMCA of Central Florida, we know that swimming is a life skill every child must learn to stay safe and have fun in the water!

We believe that water safety skills are a necessity—not a privilege. We’re committed to helping keep kids safe in and around water. Unfortunately, in the state of Florida, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children under age 4. Learning to stay safe around water may begin at your local YMCA, but it shouldn’t end there. That’s why engaging and educating families is an essential part of drowning prevention.

Safety Around Water
Tips

Childhood drowning is preventable. Here are a few water safety tips from our YMCA Aquatics team to help keep your family safe in and around water!

1 Learn to Swim

Swim lessons save lives. The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. This includes both children and adults.

2 Never Leave Children Unattended

Parents are the first line of defense in keeping kids safe in the water. Never leave children unattended near water, not even for a minute.

3 Never Swim Alone

Teach your children to always swim with a buddy if you’re not in the water with them.

4 Read All Posted Signs

Follow posted safety rules and warnings. Don’t swim in unsupervised places.

5 Spit it Out

Teach kids not to drink the pool water. To prevent choking, never chew gum or eat while swimming, diving. or playing in water.

6 Check Water Depth

The American Red Cross recommends 9 feet as a minimum depth for diving or jumping.

Practice Good Hygiene

Use plastic swim diapers for infants and young children. Many public pools require them. Note where changing areas are located and use these designated, sanitized changing spots.

Avoid Water Wings

Don’t use air-filled swimming aids like water wings in place of life jackets or life preservers. Using air-filled swimming aids can give parents and children a false sense of security, which may increase the risk of drowning. These air-filled aids are toys and aren’t designed to be personal flotation devices as they can deflate if they become punctured or unplugged.

Water Safety Videos

Designate a Water Watcher

Remain at a Safe Distance

Post-swimming Reminders

Look Before You Leap

Swim Stroke Guides

Our YMCA Aquatics team has put together dry-land home activities—no pool required! These home activities help to develop good form and build stamina. When the skill has been mastered on land, it becomes easier to perform in the water.

Our Commitment

Your child’s safety is our priority. Find out more about our commitment to keeping kids safe.

Learn More

Get in Touch

Do you have a question about Drowning Prevention? Let us know!

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Aquatic Camps

Offerings include Fishing, Wacky Water Sports, Endurance Sports and Games, and more!