Learn the Facts
So You Can Prevent Emergencies
At the MetroWest YMCA, we're diving deep into drowning prevention and water confidence for every member of your family.
As families head to pools, lakes, and beaches, it’s essential to know the facts about water safety and take action. We’re here to help you protect what matters most. Learn the risks, explore proven prevention strategies, and take simple steps—like swim lessons and the Water Watcher pledge—to keep your family safe around water all summer long.
Drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1–4 and the second for ages 5–14. It is also preventable.
— World Health Organization
88% of drownings happen with at least one adult present.
— National Drowning Prevention Alliance
Follow these Safety Tips
In and Around Water
- Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water.
- Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water. Make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.
- Be Sure to Designate a “Water Watcher.”
- When water is present, make sure that kids are actively supervised at all times.
- Ask an adult to monitor the water. This person’s role is to stay completely undistracted and monitor the water. This means no phones, no books, no conversation, and no quick runs to the cooler for a snack!
- Water Watchers make summer fun possible. Take 20-minute shifts and enjoy a safe time around water.
- Don’t engage in breath-holding activities.
- Wear a life jacket. Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- Don’t jump in the water to save someone who is struggling in deep water. If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try to save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer underwater. Use a long object to reach for them and pull them to safety.
Build Confidence and Skills
Swim Lessons for Youth, Teens, Adults
Research shows that formal swim lessons can dramatically reduce the risk or drowning. That’s why the Y, the nation's leading provider of community-based swim instruction, offers lessons for all ages—starting as young as six months.
Our swim lessons don’t just teach strokes. They build lifesaving skills, water safety awareness, and unshakable confidence—skills that last a lifetime.
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Take the "Water Watcher" Pledge!
Your attention saves lives.
Designate a Water Watcher—an adult who is always alert, always sober, and never distracted by phones or conversations. This small action can prevent a tragedy.
Take the Pledge below. Make it clear who’s watching the water—every minute matters.
Featured Event
Backyard Pool and Waterfront Safety Talk
Water Safety is for Everyone
Financial concerns shouldn’t be a barrier to water safety. Our Y ASSIST program ensures access to swim lessons for all through sliding scale fees—funded by generous donors. Support or sign up today—and give the gift of confidence and safety.
Together, let’s help every child and adult achieve, relate, and belong—safely around water.
More to Explore:
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The Ultimate Summer Membership
Join our Clearbrook Swim Club for the summer and gain access to all three MetroWest YMCA locations! Three pools, programs, and classes, and family fun for all ages!
Hopkinton Swim Club & Swim Team
Bring your family to enjoy our beautiful 122-acre Outdoor Center and outdoor pool this summer! Play pickleball, hike in the woods, meet other families, and more.
If you have a child between the ages of 6-13 who is interested in starting competitive swim, consider trying out for our Stingrays Swim Team.
Swim Lessons Included in Summer Camp
Most of our summer day camp programs include swim lessons in addition to lots of free, recreational swim time! Whether your child is just getting comfortable in the water or preparing for a swim team, they can develop skills and confidence in a safe, supportive environment.