As the weather heats up and families head to the water for fun and relaxation, it's important to remember that May is National Water Safety Month. This annual awareness campaign aims to promote safe and responsible water practices and prevent drowning incidents.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of accidental injury and death in children aged 1-4, and the second leading cause of death in children aged 5-14. These alarming statistics highlight the need for increased education and awareness of water safety.
To support National Water Safety Month, your YMCA is launching a campaign to educate the public about water safety and encourage safe practices in and around water. Throughout May, the campaign will offer a variety of resources and activities to promote water safety, including swim lessons, educational materials, and community events.
"Our goal is to make sure that everyone in our community has the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe in and around water," said Jay Parker, YMCA of Central Virginia. "By working together, we can prevent drowning incidents and keep our families and community members safe."
Aquatics programs at the Y include youth swim lessons for ages 6 months and older, adult swim lessons, open family swim, open adult lap swim, water fitness classes, and our competitive swim team
To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate, donor-supported financial assistance is available to those in need to help cover the costs.
The Y encourages everyone to take advantage of the resources and activities offered during National Water Safety Month, and to make water safety a top priority this summer and beyond. Be sure to download our mobile app, and follow us on social media for tips and information that will keep your kids safe.