Sign-Ups Underway For Conejo Valley YMCA's “Safety Around Water”

The Conejo Valley YMCA's "Safety Around Water" (SAW) program is currently accepting sign-ups. The one-week program will be held June 11 through June 14 and again July 23 through July 26. SAW is designed to teach children water safety and basic swimming skills. Classes take place at the Conejo Valley YMCA indoor pool (4031 Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks). They are offered at no cost to the participants and are open to the public.

The 30-minute classes are for those with little or no swimming experience. Participants are grouped by age: preschool (3 to 5 year olds) and youth (6 to 10 year olds). Classes begin at 12:20 p.m. On the Friday after the program, SAW families are invited to swim from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. YMCA lifeguards will be on duty.

According to the USA Swimming Foundation, last year at least 163 children under age 15 drowned in swimming pools and spas from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Through SAW, the YMCA is committed to teach Conejo Valley children the skills they need to be safe around water," says Allison Wilson, the Y's Senior Program Director. "YMCA SAW programs are taking place across the country and are making a difference."

SAW does not take the place of swim classes. It is a water survival program. During SAW classes, children learn how to respond if they find themselves in unexpected water situations including how to float on their backs, reach the water’s surface if they become submerged and safely reach a pool’s edge. Fun activities are incorporated in the classes to reinforce skills.

The Conejo Y expects up to 100 participants in each session.

Participants can register at the Conejo YMCA front desk or by calling the facility at 805-523-7613. Families who want more information can contact Allison Wilson at awilson@sevymca.org.