6 Essential Tips for National Water Safety Month

May is National Water Safety Month, the perfect time to brush up on how to keep everyone safe while enjoying pools, lakes, rivers and beaches. As temperatures rise and families flock to the water, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges wants to help parents and caregivers keep safety top of mind. Here are six essential water safety tips to remember this summer:

1. Always Ask First

Make sure kids know they must always ask an adult for permission before going near or into any water. Teaching kids to be water smart starts with this simple but crucial habit.

2. Never Swim Alone

Kids should never swim by themselves. Whether at the pool or the lake, there should always be a responsible, distraction-free adult watching - or better yet, a lifeguard on duty.

3. Keep Them Within Arm’s Reach

Stay close anytime young children are in or around water - even the bathtub. Active supervision means you’re always just an arm’s length away.

4. Skip Breath-Holding Games

Holding your breath underwater for too long can be dangerous. Teach kids (and remind adults!) not to play prolonged breath-holding games while swimming.

5. Use Life Jackets

Kids who aren’t strong swimmers should wear a properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved life jacket when in or near open water.

6. Reach or Throw - Don’t Go

If someone is in trouble in deep water, kids should know not to jump in after them. Instead, teach them the Y’s “Reach, Throw, Don’t Go” rule: Use a long object to reach out or throw something that floats to help pull their friend to safety - and always call for an adult right away.

Children can learn fundamental swimming skills during the Y’s Safety Around Water Week held June 22-June 26, 2026. During this free, five-day program, certified swim instructors teach skills that reduce the risk of drowning and give children the confidence to be in and around water. Register online at metroymcas.org/main/safety-around-water.

To learn more about Safety Around Water and swim lessons, visit metroymcas.org or call 973-758-9039.