While few parents would allow their child to swim without supervision in a lake or in the ocean, 37% of parents surveyed in a recent study* would allow their children to swim unsupervised in a backyard, neighborhood or hotel pool.

Drowning can occur anywhere. The familiarity of a backyard or neighborhood pool can often provide a false sense of security.

The Y strongly advises parents to closely supervise kids at all times, even if they think their child is a good swimmer. Always watch your child.

Drowning is the second-leading cause of injury-related death in American children aged 1 to 15. Each year, about 1,000 youngsters die from unintentional drowning. Nearly 5,000 will require emergency department treatment for non-fatal water-related injuries, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Swim lessons are the best way to gain confidence and stay safe in the water. The Y offers scholarships and discounts based on income for both memberships and swim lessons.

You are never too old to learn how to swim! And kids can start getting used to the water as young as 6 months old in Parent/Child Lessons.

Learn more and register for youth swim lessons and adult swim lessons.

*According to the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s  Health at the University of Michigan.