Published: May 28, 2026
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, our Y wants to help parents and caregivers keep safety top of mind. Here are six essential water safety tips to remember this summer:
- 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. - 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. - Keep Them Within Arm’s Reach
Stay close anytime young children are in or around water - even the bathtub. Active supervision meansyou’re always just an arm’s length away. - 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. - 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. - 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.