The Number One Drowning Myth

Published: May 15, 2022

Water_Safety_Month_10.jpg

We’ve all seen the movies and television shows that feature a scene of drowning—there is typically a lot of yelling, and lots of splashing over a long period of time while onlookers attempt to understand what is happening and then perform a rescue.

Unfortunately, Hollywood has taught us to look for the wrong things when it comes to water safety. Drowning is by and large silent—a person struggling for air cannot scream, and more likely you’ll see a person bobbing slightly up and down in the water with little to splashing.

“We know that 88 percent of drownings happen under adult supervision. At first glance, parents and caregivers may think a child is playing, but instead, that child is struggling,” said Jennifer Helm, Senior Aquatics Director. The fact that drowning is silent makes it all the more important to watch children closely when water is around—whether that’s a swimming pool, lake, ocean, or even bathtub.

Return to News & Blogs

Upcoming Events

Sep
5
Sep 5, 2025
2nd Annual Sizzling Summer Senior BBQ - at Camp Merrywood

Attention all Members ates 60+ - Join us for our 2nd Annual Sizzling Summer Senior BBQ on Friday, ...

View Details
Aug
23
Aug 23 - Sep 8, 2025
Kontes Pool Closed for Improvements

This is a friendly reminder that the Kontes Pool Area will be temporarily closed starting August 23,...

View Details
Sep
19
Sep 19, 2025
September Block Party

Save the Date for our next YMCA Block Party on September 19th. More details to come!  ...

View Details
Sep
26
Sep 26, 2025
American Red Cross Blood Drive

Join us for out our newxt American Red Cross Blood Drive - September 26th from 12pm-5pm Schedule ...

View Details

View Upcoming Events »