It’s a startling but true fact: drowning is one of the leading causes of preventable death in children.
Here’s what you can do to keep your family water safe:
- Always supervise children when they are near or in the water: in the pool or at the beach.
- Be careful when swimming near strong currents in the ocean. It only takes a second to be swept away.
- Do not allow children to dive in headfirst unless they are properly trained and the water is deep enough.
- Ensure non-swimmers are always wearing a PFD when near or in the water.
- Never leave a child unattended in the bathtub. Drowning can happen in just two inches of water.
- Make sure children play with care and understand the dangers. Even the friendliest dunking game can be risky.
- Floatation devices aren’t a replacement for supervision. Make sure an adult is watching at all times.
- Be proactive and get trained on First Aid and CPR.
- If you have a swimming pool, make sure your children cannot get into the pool area by having proper fencing and a childproof gate.
- Lifejackets have weight limits. Make sure your lifejacket or PFD is comfortable and light, fits snug and does not ride above your ears. Not sure if it’s fitting properly? A YMCA lifeguard would be happy to check if for you.
- Make sure the entire family learns to swim! There is no substitute for knowing how to swim.
We believe learning to swim is a critical life skill and that’s why the YMCA includes swimming lessons with every membership.
To get involved, sign up at your closest YMCA membership desk or call:
Langara Family YMCA: 604-324-9622
Robert Lee YMCA: 604-689-9622
Tong Louie Family YMCA: 604-575-9622
Need a little inspiration? Watch this video!