Lacey Recreation, YMCA Promote Water Safety

LACEY, NJ — Lacey Township and the Lacey Recreation Department are partnering with YMCA of the Jersey Shore this summer to focus on water safety for children and adults in the broader community.

"With access to our beautiful lakefront and beach, we want children and people of all ages to be safe around all bodies of water, including the lake, beaches and pools. We know that teaching children how to swim at an early age helps reduce the risk of drowning and builds a lifetime love of swimming," said Jim Wioland, Lacey Township Director of Recreation. "We are pleased to partner with the Ocean County YMCA, a branch of YMCA of the Jersey Shore this summer to welcome families at Lake Barnegat Beach for swim lessons supporting youth and adults."

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The YMCA said it teaches more than 1 million children water safety and swimming skills each year through community programs, school partnerships and at Y facilities. The organization is sometimes nicknamed "America's swim instructor."

Along with the local partnership, the information shared with families included six water safety reminders for beaches, lakes and pools.

Buddy Up — Never allow children to swim alone and teach them to use the buddy system, even at public pools, lakes, or beaches with lifeguards.

Lifeguards on Duty — Always swim where lifeguards are on duty and only allow children to swim in designated guarded areas.

Phones Down, Eyes Up — Responding to a text, answering an email, listening to a podcast, or making a grocery list—these tasks may seem quick and harmless, but those few seconds of distraction can add up. Learn more about the YMCA's Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign.

Watch the Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign video.

Designate a Water Watcher — An adult who stays focused and free from distractions like phones, conversations, or alcohol who can maintain constant visual contact with all children in or near the water, even when lifeguards are present.

Wear a Life Jacket — Inexperienced swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket in and around water. If children can't swim, always keep them within an arm's reach.

No Breath Holding — Children should not hold their breath for prolonged periods while swimming. This can cause drowning and can have other severe side effects.