Drowning Remains a Leading Risk for Young Children; YMCA Offering Free Water Safety Training for Local Families

Lynchburg, VA — May 1, 2026 — As warmer weather draws families back to pools, lakes, and summer vacations, the YMCA of Central Virginia is reminding parents and caregivers that water safety is critical, especially for young children.

According to safety data, drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 and is among the top causes for children ages 5 to 14. These incidents often happen quickly, quietly, and frequently when adults are close by but unaware.

To help local families prepare before summer begins, the YMCA of Central Virginia is offering free Water Safety Day events throughout May in recognition of National Water Safety Month.

Free Water Safety Days This May

The hands-on training sessions will be held at:

Jamerson Family YMCA — May 16, 2026
Downtown YMCA — May 30, 2026

The events are open to both YMCA members and non-members.

Last year, more than 100 local children participated, gaining confidence and learning essential skills designed to reduce the risk of water-related accidents. This year’s program continues that mission with a one-hour interactive experience led by trained YMCA instructors, combining both land-based education and in-water practice.

What Children Will Learn

Children ages 5 to 12 will take part in age-appropriate activities focused on real-life scenarios, including:

What to do if a friend falls into the water
How to help safely without putting themselves in danger
Proper use of life jackets
What it feels like to be inside a water raft

The sessions are designed to be informative, supportive, and fun, helping children build awareness and confidence in and around water before summer activities begin.

A Longstanding Leader in Water Safety

For generations, the YMCA has played a leading role in water safety, including introducing group swim lessons in the United States. Today, the organization continues that legacy through programs such as Safety Around Water and community initiatives like Water Safety Day.

While the events introduce vital skills, YMCA officials stress that ongoing swim lessons and regular practice are essential to developing strong, capable swimmers.

Registration Info

Registration is required for both Water Safety Day events. Families can sign up online through the YMCA’s website or visit any YMCA Welcome Center for assistance. Parents or guardians must remain on-site during the program.

About the YMCA of Central Virginia

For more than 170 years, the YMCA of Central Virginia has served as a place where families learn, grow, and stay safe together. One of the oldest YMCAs in the country, the organization serves thousands each year through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and community health.

From a child’s first swim lesson to essential life-saving skills, the YMCA helps families prepare not just for summer—but for moments that matter most.

Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

There’s no place like this place.

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