By learning how to perform a sequenced set of skills over eight lessons, children gain confidence in knowing what to do in and around water. Safety Around Water is truly life-saving.

The Akron Area YMCA, in cooperation with Akron Community Foundation, Premier Bank, Akron Children's Hospital, the City of Akron, Akron Public Schools, and Akron Recreation Bureau is committed to providing YMCA's "Safety Around Water" program to all Akron Public School students through the 4th grade.

 

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What Is
Safety Around Water?

Through learning how to perform a sequenced set of skills over eight lessons of 40 minutes each, the risk of drowning is reduced, giving your child confidence in and around water.

A typical session includes:

  • Exercises to help kids adjust to being in water
  • Instruction in “Jump, Push, Turn, Grab” and “Swim, Float, Swim,” two skill sets kids can use if they unexpectedly find themselves in the water
  • Specific safety topics, like what to do if you see someone in the water who needs help
  • Fun activities that reinforce skills

A PROGRAM THAT TRULY WORKS

Did you know that drowning is the second-leading cause of deaths for kids age 5-14? AND that African American children are 3 times more likely to drown than their white peers?88 percent of kids who drown do so under adult supervision, and 60 percent of kids who drown are within 10 feet of safety. The SAW program is dedicated to helping reduce that risk for our children in Akron Public Schools. Check out his video to see the impact this program truly has!