Know how to be safe while in the water this summer

Swimming is a great activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, but it’s important to know how to be safe while you’re in the water.

Ongoing challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic might be competing for our energy and attention right now. Focusing on drowning prevention and safe aquatic facilities and camps is all the more important as we continue to operate through disruptions and transition this summer.

The Link Aquatic Center at the Illinois Valley YMCA in Peru has safety regulations to ensure the health and safety of all guests. The YMCA strives to maintain a clean, healthy and safe aquatic environment. Safety guidelines are posted and strictly enforced to keep guests and their families safe when visiting the Link Aquatic Center.

It’s important to know how to be safe while you’re in the water. The American Red Cross offers important swimming safety tips you should be aware of before you head out to the pool or beach.

Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards and always swim with a buddy.

Never swim alone or leave a young child unattended near water. The American Red Cross recommends teaching your child to always ask for permission to go near water. Maintain constant supervision and have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear a life jacket.

Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim well. The Illinois Valley YMCA offers a wide range of swim programs this summer at the Link Aquatic Center.

Private swim lessons offer one-on-one attention, and lessons are based on your schedule. Simply complete a request form at the Courtesy Counter, or visit www.ivymca.com and complete the Lesson Request Form. An instructor will contact you in 3-5 business days to schedule your instruction.

Private swim lessons are available for ages 3 years to adult. Group lessons are offered for children ages 3 years and older. Swim lessons are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings.

The Illinois Valley YMCA will remain open with added safety protocols in place to ensure the health and safety of its members and staff. If you have not enrolled your child in swim lessons during the pandemic, now is a good time to consider resuming lessons and teaching your child an important life skill!

Illinois Valley YMCA: 300 Walnut Dr., Peru, IL 61354, 815-223-7904, www.ivymca.com

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