Summer is quickly approaching, and as families are making their way to the pool, beach and water parks, the YMCA is reminding families of a simple but life-saving message: Phones Down, Eyes Up. 

With drowning being the second leading cause of death among children five to 14 years old, this national campaign for Water Safety Month urges parents and caregivers to stay present when their children are in or near water. 

The YMCA prioritizes swimming safety year-round with its programs, including Safety Around Water and Safe Start to teach children water safety while building confidence, but there are practical steps families can take to protect each other this summer. 

1. Phones Down, Eyes Up

With 60% of drownings happening within 10 feet of safety and 88% occurring under the supervision of an adult, being present is the most important thing you can do whenever kids or swimming or playing near water. 

To help encourage undistracted supervision, we recommend large groups assign a designated adult Water Watcher, who should avoid distractions like texting, socializing or multitasking while on watch, and switch out every 15 to 20 minutes. 

The YMCA designed a Water Watcher badge to clearly identify who’s on duty and so the kids know who can help if needed. Scan this QR code to download a free “Water Watcher” badge during your next pool party so everyone can celebrate safely.

2. Prioritize Protection

While most families feel safest at home, the majority of drownings occur in residential pools. The most effective way to protect your child, even at home, is to utilize layers of protection such as four-sided fences, self-latching gates and alarms around pool access points, and pool and drain covers. 

Whether at home, visiting family, friends or in public spaces, it’s critical to teach children to ask permission before entering water. 

3. Take the Safety Around Water Pledge

Living in Central Florida means water is almost always within reach, making water safety a year-round commitment. By taking the Safety Around Water Pledge you are making a commitment to advocate for water safety by staying informed, staying distraction free while supervising kids in and around water, enrolling them in swim lessons, learning CPR, ensuring proper protection at your residential pool and sharing these tips with others. 

Visit your local Y or ymcacf.org to take the pledge and receive even more tips to keep you safe this summer.

Whether you’re six or 60, making a splash in the pool with friends and family creates fun summer memories, but those memories should always come second to the safety of each other. 

These are just a few of the steps to creating a fun, worry-free summer. YMCA programs like Safety Around Water and Safe Start, which teaches non-walking infants to float, rest, and breathe, are just part of the Y’s efforts to equip families with life-saving skills. 

For more water safety tips or to enroll in swimming lessons, visit your neighborhood YMCA or check out ymcacf.org.