May is National Water Safety Month, which aims to raise awareness about the well-being of individuals around bodies of water.  Swimming is not only a great physical activity, but it’s also a popular pastime enjoyed by families throughout the summer.  And, with drowning being the leading cause of death among children, the Greater Joliet Area YMCA encourages you and your family to practice water safety year-round.

If you’re looking to help keep your family safe around the water, you may want to consider these helpful tips before or during your next trip to the pool:

Sign-Up for Swim Lessons

Enrolling your child in swim lessons at a young age is extremely beneficial.  Children, ages 1-4, have a decreased risk of drowning when they’ve participated in swim lessons.  And, as an adult, it’s always great to take a refresher course or ‘dive’ into swim lessons yourself.

Did you know the Galowich Family YMCA offers a learn-to-swim program for adults? 

The Y’s ‘No Fear Fridays’ swim program is underway!  Throughout the month of May, adults, ages 18 and up, are invited to learn basic swim skills and improve their health and well-being during this new class on Fridays from 9:15-10 a.m. at the Galowich Family Y, located at 749 Houbolt Road in Joliet.

Swim with a Friend

It’s important at any age to have a friend or family member accompany you while swimming.  The risk of drowning can happen at any time, so having a friend or family member close by is important in case of an emergency.

Get Certified or Re-Certified in CPR

Understanding CPR is an excellent life skill to have, and is especially important when you’re around water.  Being able to perform CPR during a medical emergency can help to save a life.  The YMCA offers CPR classes at its Joliet and Plainfield locations.

To learn more about CPR classes at the Y, visit the Y’s website.

Have a Phone Available for Emergencies

Whether you’re heading to the beach or the pool, be sure to have the ability to contact 911 if an emergency should arise.

To learn more about water safety, check out this great article, courtesy of the American Red Cross.

As a reminder, summer swim lessons will get underway on Monday, June 3.  Families are invited to take advantage of the Y’s Early Bird offer and save $5 on Summer 1 swim lessons through Tuesday, May 28. To learn more about swim lessons at the Y, please visit the Y’s website or contact your local YMCA’s Aquatics Director.