2 weeks Ago By Kathryn McNutt
Summertime inevitably brings tragic drowning deaths in lakes and swimming pools across Oklahoma. “Drownings increase significantly as we head into the summer months,” said Kelsey Pagonis, vice president of communications at the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City . “Swimming is a vital life skill, so it’s never too late to learn how to swim.
” The YMCA offers parent/child swim lessons for children beginning at 6 months old, group lessons for ages 3-12 and private lessons for ages 3 through senior adult. Pagonis said the minimum age is based on the physical development of infants. “They need to have enough core strength to sit and keep their heads up,” she said.
“While 6 months might sound early to some, we encourage parents and guardians to consider these lessons as part of a long-term water safety strategy. We know the risk of drowning is reduced the earlier a child learns to swim.” Drowning is the leading cause of death for 1- to 4-year-olds in Oklahoma and nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Most drownings occur from May through August, and the numbers are increasing. CDC provisional statistics show 2,529 people (all ages) drowned from May through August 2024, an increase of more than 11% from 2023. “As the weather warms up, the risk of drowning increases exponentially.
At this time of year, it’s crucial for parents to prioritize their children’s safety around water,” said Jaci Lambert, senior marketing manager for Aqua-Tots Swim Schools. With more than 170 locations across 14 countries, the Phoenix area-based company offers year-round, indoor swimming instruction for children 4 months to 12 years old, community outreach and drowning prevention education. A YMCA swim instructor reviews safety procedures with children during a class.
(Photo/YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City) Citing National Institutes of Health data, Lambert said participation in formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88% among children ages 1 to 4. In Oklahoma City, Aqua-Tots boasts of more than 400 enrollments and rave reviews from parents. “We’re thrilled to see so many families choose Aqua-Tots for their children’s swim education,” said Kaitlin Lawson, local general manager.
“Our team is dedicated to making sure every child feels comfortable and confident, and we’re proud to be part of their swimming journey.” With a focus on both enjoyment and technique, the school’s personalized approach to each child helps build confidence and skills while fostering a love for swimming, Lawson said. Aqua-Tots encourages parents to take practical steps for water safety, such as purchasing colorful swimsuits for visibility; installing barriers, door alarms and locks; and creating a supervision plan for children near water.
“ Many rely on floaties for safety, but these can deflate or be slipped off when parents are distracted, giving a false sense of security,” Lambert said. “In fact, 80% of child drownings happened in a residential pool while an adult was present.” Swim classes at the YMCA are open to both members and nonmembers, with members paying a discounted rate, Pagonis said.
The YMCA also works with local schools to provide a free national program called Safety Around Water to about 1,500 students each year. “Our SAW program is a coordinated effort between us and local schools to bring second graders to our pools once a week during the school day for eight weeks,” Pagonis said. “We cover all costs, including transportation, program costs, instructor costs and equipment.
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