NASHUA — As part of National Water Safety Month, the YMCA of Greater Nashua is amplifying its commitment to water safety education and drowning prevention. This initiative will culminate with a free Water Safety Day event on Sunday, June 1 at the Merrimack YMCA, offering complimentary Safety Around Water swim lessons and educational activities for the whole family.

Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1-14. As summer approaches, the Y is reminding parents, caregivers, and guardians to stay alert and proactive about water safety–starting with their own habits. This year’s awareness campaign emphasizes: “Phones Down. Eyes Up.” when children are in and around water.

“Supervision is the number one way to keep children safe,” says Merrimack Aquatics Director Alyssa King. “Our message to parents is simple: stay present, stay focused. That means putting away your phone when your kids are in the pool or at the beach.”

The Phones Down. Eyes Up. campaign outlines key water safety guidelines:

• Maintain active supervision–never rely on lifeguards alone.

• Designate a Water Watcher whose sole job is to supervise children in water.

• Put phones away–no scrolling, texting, or multitasking during swim time.

• Teach children to always ask permission before going near water.

• Enroll kids in swimming lessons that include water safety and self-rescue skills.

YMCA of Greater Nashua Hosts Free Water Safety Day — June 1
To mark the month, the Merrimack YMCA will host a Water Safety Day on Sunday, June 1, open to the public. The event will include:

• Free Safety Around Water swim lessons for children

• Drowning prevention demonstrations

• Water watcher tag giveaways

• Interactive activities and family swim time

The Y’s Safety Around Water program helps children build confidence and basic water skills that reduce the risk of drowning. Lessons focus on what to do if a child unexpectedly finds themselves in water, including floating, treading, and safely exiting.

A Lifelong Commitment to Water Safety
The YMCA of Greater Nashua has a long history of promoting swimming and water safety. From parent-child swim classes to lifeguard certification, the Y ensures that swimmers of all ages learn how to be safe and confident in and around water.

“Water safety is a skill that saves lives,” Alyssa said. “Through our swim programs and outreach events like Water Safety Day, we’re building safer families and stronger communities.”

To learn more about Water Safety Day or register for free swim lessons, visit www.nmymca.org/water-safety-month.