YMCA urges water safety awareness as summer season begins
As temperatures rise and families spend more time around pools, lakes, and rivers, the YMCA of Western North Carolina is recognizing National Water Safety Month by reinforcing the importance of water safety and expanding access to lifesaving swim education across the region.
Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental injury-related death for children, and access to swim lessons can significantly reduce that risk. The Y is committed to ensuring that every person—regardless of age, background, or financial circumstance—has the opportunity to learn essential water safety skills.
“At the Y, water safety is about more than swimming—it’s about confidence, awareness, and saving lives,” said Ben Watson, senior aquatics program director at the YMCA of WNC. “We are dedicated to creating welcoming spaces where individuals and families can build skills that keep them safe in and around the water.”
Expanding Access to Water Safety for All
The YMCA of WNC offers a wide range of programs designed to meet people at every stage of their water safety journey:
- Swim Lessons for All Ages: From infants and young children to teens and adults, YMCA swim lessons focus on skill development, water confidence, and safety awareness. Programs are designed to help participants progress at their own pace in a supportive environment.
- Safety Around Water Program: This foundational program teaches critical survival skills, including how to safely reach the water’s surface, float, tread water, and exit safely. It is often provided in partnership with local schools and community organizations.
- Private and Small-Group Swim Instruction: Personalized instruction allows participants to receive one-on-one or small-group support, helping individuals build skills more quickly and comfortably.
- Lifeguard Training and Certification: The Y prepares individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies, helping strengthen community safety overall.
- Piranhas Swim Team: Enhances swim skills and fosters growth and teamwork.
Removing Barriers Through Scholarships and Community Investment
To ensure access for all, the Y provides financial assistance and scholarships for swim lessons and water safety programs. In addition, grant-funded and privately funded initiatives help expand reach into communities that may face barriers to participation.
These efforts reflect the YMCA’s commitment to advancing equity by increasing access to resources and creating opportunities for all people to learn life-saving skills.
Key Water Safety Tips for Families
As part of Water Safety Month, the YMCA encourages community members to take simple but important steps to stay safe:
- Always supervise children closely when they are in or near water
- Learn basic swimming and water safety skills
- Wear life jackets when appropriate, especially in open water
- Avoid distractions like phones when supervising swimmers
- Learn CPR and emergency response skills
- Building a Safer, Stronger Community
Each year, the Y serves thousands of individuals and families through programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. By prioritizing water safety education, the Y is helping prevent accidents, build confidence, and strengthen community well-being.
Community members can explore swim programs, register for lessons, and learn more about water safety resources by visiting here.