Drowning Remains a Leading Risk for Young Children, YMCA Offering Free Water Safety Training for Local Families

As temperatures rise and families head toward pools, lakes, and vacations, the YMCA of Central Virginia is urging parents to take water safety seriously. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages 1–4 and one of the top causes for children ages 5–14 and it often happens quickly, quietly, and when adults are nearby but unaware.

National Water Safety Month

To help prevent these tragedies, the YMCA is offering no-cost, hands-on Water Safety Days for local families this May as part of National Water Safety Month.

The events will take place at the Jamerson Family YMCA on May 16, 2026 and the Downtown YMCA on May 30, 2026, and are open to both members and non-members.

Building Confidence Through Water Safety

Last year, the YMCA welcomed more than 100 local children, helping them build confidence and learn essential skills to stay safe in and around water. This year’s event will again focus on real life scenarios through a one-hour experience that includes both land-based and in-water instruction led by trained YMCA staff.

Children ages 5–12 will learn what to do if a friend falls into the water, how to safely assist without putting themselves at risk, proper life jacket use, and what it feels like to be in a water raft. All in a fun, supportive environment designed to build confidence and awareness before summer begins.

Continuing Our Commitment. How to Participate

For generations, the YMCA has been a leader in water safety, including introducing group swim lessons in the United States, and continues that work today through programs like Safety Around Water and community events like Water Safety Day. While the event introduces key skills, the YMCA emphasizes that ongoing swim lessons and consistent practice are essential to building strong, capable swimmers.

Registration is required for both events. Visit our website to register online or stop by any branch Welcome Center for assistance. Parents or guardians must remain on-site during the program.

About the YMCA of Central Virginia

For 170 years, the YMCA of Central Virginia has been a place where families come to learn, grow, and stay safe together. As one of the oldest YMCAs in the nation, we serve thousands each year through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and community health.

From a child’s first swim lesson to learning how to stay safe in the water, the Y is where confidence begins and skills are built for life. Preparing families not just for summer, but for moments that matter most.

Our mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

There’s no place like this place.