Safety Around Water Making a Splash in Gaston County This Summer
As the hot summer sun shines down upon Gaston County, families and individuals are flocking to pools, lakes, and rivers to beat the heat and enjoy a refreshing escape from everyday life. Amid the joyous laughter and splashes, ensuring water safety becomes paramount. In a bid to promote safe aquatic experiences, the "Safety Around Water" (SAW) initiative has taken center stage in Gaston County this summer. With a strong focus on preventing water-related accidents and fostering a culture of responsible water activities, this program has been making waves and garnering community support.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of injury-related deaths for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths for children ages 5-14. The YMCA recognizes the importance of teaching children water safety skills to prevent drowning and other water-related injuries. In the summer of 2022, the Gaston County Family YMCA provided Safety Around Water classes for over 190 local children. This summer, we have already served more than 140 local children and families!
Warlick Family YMCA Aquatics Director, Candace Hyde says, "As the Aquatics Director, I've witnessed firsthand the remarkable impact of Safety Around Water in our community. This initiative has not only instilled essential water safety skills in our residents but also fostered a culture of responsible aquatic experiences."
Collaborative Efforts
The success of the "Safety Around Water" initiative can be attributed to the collaboration between local authorities, community organizations, sponsors and the YMCA. By joining forces, these entities have been able to create a comprehensive program that caters to different age groups and demographics. Through workshops, classes, and events, the message of water safety is being spread far and wide, ensuring that as many people as possible have access to this critical information. This summer, we are grateful to our local First Horizon Bank for their contributions and for helping us make this summer a huge success in transforming lives in Gaston County!
We also want to thank our local community pools partners for hosting our SAW sessions this summer!
Warlick Family YMCA Community
City of Gastonia, Lineberger City Pool
Stowe Family YMCA Community
Cramerton Parks and Recreation Department, Cramerton Community Pool
The Importance of Water Safety
Water safety is an essential skill that everyone should possess, regardless of age or swimming ability. Gaston County recognizes the significance of water safety education and has taken proactive measures to impart these life-saving skills to its residents. Stowe Family YMCA Aquatics Director, Phillip Werner shares, "The ripple effect of this initiative is evident in the confident smiles and joyous splashes of our community members, knowing they can enjoy the water safely. Safety Around Water is transforming lives, ensuring that every visit to the pool or swim in the lake is not just a moment of fun but a moment of security and knowledge." From beginners to experienced swimmers, "Safety Around Water" aims to instill confidence and knowledge in individuals to make informed decisions while around bodies of water.
Targeting Vulnerable Populations
Among the most significant achievements of "Safety Around Water" is its focus on vulnerable populations. The initiative has tailored this program programs for children who may not have access to traditional swim lessons. Recognizing that certain groups may be at a higher risk when it comes to water-related incidents, these targeted efforts are designed to address their specific needs and challenges, equipping them with the tools to stay safe and enjoy water activities confidently.
The youth of Gaston County are at the heart of the "Safety Around Water" campaign. Recognizing that they are not only the future but also the most susceptible to water hazards, the initiative has integrated water safety education into schools and summer camps. By engaging children at an early age, this program ensures that water safety becomes second nature to them, reducing the likelihood of accidents and emergencies.
Community Events and Awareness
The buzz surrounding "Safety Around Water" has led to a series of community events and awareness campaigns throughout Gaston County. From safety demonstrations at local pools to informative workshops at community centers, the initiative has been proactive in reaching out to residents and spreading the message of water safety. It is the YMCA's mission to further reinforce the importance of staying vigilant and responsible while enjoying water-based activities.
As the summer season continues, "Safety Around Water" continues to leave an indelible mark on Gaston County. The collective efforts of local authorities, community organizations, and the YMCA have brought about a transformative change in the community's approach to water safety. By prioritizing education, inclusivity, and collaboration, this initiative is making a positive impact and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the summer safely. As more individuals become empowered with essential water safety skills, Gaston County moves closer to becoming a safer and more enjoyable place for all its residents and visitors alike.
SAFETY AROUND WATER PHOTO GALLERY
WHAT IS THE SAFETY AROUND WATER PROGRAM
The Safety Around Water program is a free, multi-day program offered to children ages 5-12 who do not know how to swim or have limited swimming ability. The program teaches basic water safety skills, including floating, treading water, and swimming techniques. In addition to teaching children how to swim, the program also includes education on water safety rules and best practices, such as never swimming alone, always wearing a life jacket, and never diving in shallow water.
This 8-day course, taught by a certified instructor teaches children two sets of skills that will reduce the risk of drowning and give them confidence in and around water. A typical session includes:
- Exercises to help children adjust to being in water.
- Instruction in “Jump, Push, Turn, Grab” and “Swim, Float, Swim,” two skill sets children can use if they unexpectedly find themselves in the water.
- An activity that teaches children about specific safety topics such as pool rules and boating safety.
- A fun game to encourage comfort and activity around water.
The Safety Around Water program is more than just a swim lesson. It is a program that teaches children valuable skills that could save their lives. The YMCA is committed to reducing the number of drownings and increasing water safety awareness in the community.