Safety Around Water

May is National Water Safety Month — the perfect time to refresh your family’s water safety habits before summer is in full swing. As temperatures rise and families head to pools, lakes, rivers and beaches, the YMCA of the Triangle is encouraging parents and caregivers to keep safety top of mind.

Water activities can be a fun way to stay active and cool off, but they also come with real risks — especially for children. Drowning remains a leading cause of injury-related death among young children, and many incidents happen quickly and silently. The good news? Most water-related accidents are preventable with proper supervision, education and preparation.

To help families enjoy the water safely this summer, the YMCA of the Triangle is sharing six essential water safety tips every caregiver — and every child — should know.

1. Always Ask First

One of the simplest and most effective water safety rules is also one of the most important: kids should always ask permission before going near or getting into any body of water.

Whether it’s a backyard pool, a friend’s pond or a lake at a park, children need to understand that water access requires adult approval every time. This habit helps prevent unsupervised swimming and reinforces that water safety starts with communication and awareness.

Teaching kids to “always ask first” creates a foundation for smart decision-making around water.

2. Never Swim Alone

Swimming alone is never safe — for kids or adults. Children should always swim with supervision, ideally with a certified lifeguard present whenever possible.

At pools, lakes or beaches, there should always be a responsible adult whose only job is watching the water. That means no phones, no conversations — just active, focused supervision. Even strong swimmers can get into trouble quickly, and a distraction-free adult can make all the difference.

3. Keep Them Within Arm’s Reach

When young children are in or around water, close supervision is critical. Caregivers should stay within arm’s reach at all times — whether at the pool, the lake or even during bath time.

Active supervision means being close enough to respond immediately, not watching from across the pool or assuming another adult is paying attention. Accidents can happen in seconds, and closeness saves lives.

4. Skip Breath-Holding Games

Underwater breath-holding contests and games may seem harmless, but they can be extremely dangerous. Holding breath for too long can lead to dizziness, loss of consciousness or even drowning.

Teach children to avoid prolonged breath-holding games, and remind teens and adults that these risks apply at every age. Safe swimming means breathing freely and taking breaks when needed.

5. Use Life Jackets

Life jackets save lives — especially in open water. Children who are not strong swimmers should always wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating, kayaking or swimming in lakes and rivers.

Inflatable toys and water wings are not substitutes for life jackets. Proper flotation devices give children extra protection and peace of mind while they build confidence and skills in the water.

6. Reach or Throw — Don’t Go

If someone is in trouble in deep water, children should know never to jump in to help. Instead, teach the YMCA’s lifesaving rule: Reach or Throw — Don’t Go.

Kids should:

• Reach out with a long object, such as a towel, pool noodle or stick
• Throw something that floats to the person in trouble
• Get an adult immediately or call for help

Entering the water without training can put multiple people at risk. Knowing how to respond safely can prevent a bad situation from becoming worse.

Building Confident, Safer Swimmers

At the YMCA of the Triangle, water safety is a year-round priority. From swim lessons for all ages to water safety education programs and lifeguard training, the Y is committed to helping families build confidence and reduce water-related risks.

As summer approaches, take time to review these tips with your children and caregivers. A few simple conversations and precautions can help ensure everyone enjoys the water safely.