With summer here, the YMCA of Austin is offering help to ensure swimmers are safe when going to beaches and pools.

The YMCA of Austin begins the next summer swim programs on June 22. Classes have limited enrollment so sign up for the day and time that works best. For more information or to register for classes, visit www.ymca-austin.org, or stop by or call at 507-433-1804.

“The summer is a time of fun for many children as they head from classrooms to playgrounds and swimming pools. Unfortunately, summertime also marks an increase in the number of childhood drowning deaths and injuries,” according to the Pool Safety Campaign. “The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates each year nearly 300 children younger than five drown in swimming pools and spas and more than 3,000 that age go to hospital emergency rooms due to non-fatal submersion injuries. An unknown number of these hospitalizations result in permanent disability, including brain damage. These deaths and injuries are preventable.”

One of the best ways to protect children is by having them learn to swim. Some children love the water and others don’t like the prospect of swimming, yet it’s an important life skill. The YMCA of Austin offers lessons for every age.

Water safety tips:

•Only swim when and where there is lifeguard on duty; never swim alone.

•Be aware swim tests are for a child’s safety – if they aren’t strong swimmers they should remain in water where they can stand easily.

•Adults should constantly watch children in and near the water. If multiple adults are in the vicinity, designate a “water watcher” so everyone knows who is “on duty.”

•Inexperienced swimmers should take precaution and wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device when in, on or around the water.

•Children who are beginners should stay within arm’s reach of an adult in the water and only in water they can stand in.