Based off a press release from the YMCA of Snohomish County.
EVERETT JULY 4: The YMCA of Snohomish County wrapped up its free Safety Around Water Program (SAW) last month, teaching vital water safety education to over 646 children across the county.
“Teaching children how to be safe around water is not a luxury; it is a necessity,” said Tom Wunderlich, Association Director of Aquatics Advancement, YMCA of Snohomish County. “The Y’s Safety Around Water program provides children with the tools they need to explore and enjoy water activities safely.”
The SAW program, which runs every year during the last two weeks of June, aims to equip children with essential skills to ensure their safety in and around water. SAW is free to participants and open to all community members. The program will run again in June 2025.
One parent said, “We just completed eight awesome sessions of safety around water for our seven-year-old son. Due to COVID, he was delayed in learning how to swim. We had been waiting for months to get into lessons to no avail and we were delighted to learn about the safety around water program.”
The 8-day course, led by certified instructors, focuses on reducing the risk of drowning and building confidence in and around water. A typical session includes:
- Exercises to help kids adjust to being in the water
- Instruction in two skill sets kids can use if they unexpectedly find themselves in the water: Jump, Push, Turn, Grab and Swim, Float, Swim
- Safety topics like what to do if you see someone in the water who needs help, pool rules, and boating safety
- Fun activities that promote comfort in the water and reinforce skills
Every lesson concludes with a handout for parents and caregivers, offering additional water safety tips.
Last year around this time Washington drowning rates were higher than the national average. Swimmer safety in Snohomish County can be found here: https://snohomishcountywa.gov/5334/Water-Boating-Safety#:~:text=Swimming
“Drowning can occur almost anywhere there is standing water. As a parent or caregiver, it’s crucial to equip children with the confidence and skills needed to safely enjoy water activities,” according to the YMCA press release, “This not only promotes physical health but also strengthens family bonds and fosters a sense of accomplishment.”
Swim lessons for children and adults are offered at the YMCA. The three general categories for instruction are swim starters, basics and strokes.
“Drowning can happen quickly and silently,” emphasized Wunderlich. “By teaching these essential skills, we are empowering children to stay safe and enjoy the many benefits that come with being in and around water.”
For more information on YMCA aquatics programs, please visit ymca-snoco.org/aquatics. Financial assistance is available. This year’s SAW program was funded by a grant from the YMCA of the USA.
