This
May, the Y is recognizing National Water Safety Month and National Drowning
Prevention Month, empowering swimmers to practice safety when in or around the
water. As part of the Y's commitment to strengthening community through youth
development and healthy living, The YMCA of San Diego County offers a variety
of swim programs that teach water safety skills and give children and adults
the chance to explore the many health benefits of swimming.

¢‰âÒSwimming is
a fun and enjoyable activity for children and adults alike, and it's an easy
way to stay physically active and improve strength, flexibility and stamina,¢‰âÂå said Jojo Pope, Director of Association Aquatics, YMCA of San Diego County. ¢‰âÒThe Y encourages all children
and adults to learn how to swim. It's never too late. Basic swimming skills and
water safety practices save lives every day.¢‰âÂå

The YMCA of San Diego County encourages parents to take an active role
in their child's safety. Following are safety tips to practice when in and
around the water:

Only swim when
and where there is a lifeguard on duty; never swim alone.

  • Adults should constantly and actively watch their
    children.
  • Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast
    Guard-approved life jacket.
  • Parents or guardians of young children should be
    within an arm's reach.
  • Children and adults should not engage in breath
    holding activities.

Swimmers at the Y enjoy water
sports, enhance or learn new techniques, meet new friends, and develop confidence
and a positive mental attitude, all while learning lifesaving water safety
skills. In addition, swimming is a great way to help more children be
physically active.

As a leading nonprofit
committed to youth development, the YMCA of San Diego County has been a leader in providing swim
lessons and water safety for more than 132 years. There are a variety of programs to choose,
including family
swim, competitive swimming and lessons for all ages. To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate,
financial assistance is available to those in need to help cover the costs.

The YMCA of San Diego County has 27 pools around the
county and hundreds of programs to keep you and your family water safe. To find
your local Y go to http://www.ymcasd.org/branchfinder.html or call
858-292-9622.