Phones Down, Eyes Up: MetroWest YMCA Sends Summer Swim Safety Message
Media Contact:
Renee Henrich │ Henrich Communications
renee@henrichcommunications.com │ 617-631-0337
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRAMINGHAM, MA – May 6, 2026 – The MetroWest YMCA is sounding off on summer swim safety during May’s National Water Safety Month to educate the public on steps to avoid preventable tragedies, as the YMCA of the USA launches its National Phones Down, Eyes Up™ campaign to encourage families to keep their phones away and designate a “Water Watcher” when inexperienced swimmers are in or near water.
Drowning is the second-highest cause of death in children ages 5 to 14, and statistics show communities of color are most at risk. Throughout the month of May, the MetroWest YMCA is hosting free water safety events and providing educational materials at its community locations. Events kick off with a Backyard Pool and Waterfront Safety talk at the MetroWest YMCA Framingham Branch on May 11, and a water safety demonstration at its Clearbrook Swim Club on May 23, with the full schedule available at metrowestymca.org/water-safety-ymca.
“We’ve all been in the position where we think a quick check of the cell phone won’t hurt, but the truth is drowning accidents can happen silently, and in as little as 30 seconds,” said David Witkus, MetroWest YMCA Senior Director of Aquatics. “The MetroWest YMCA is working with YUSA to build this life-saving awareness.”
According to NDPA (National Drowning Prevention Alliance), 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present, and 50% of children drown within 25 yards of a parent or other adult.
Knowing how to be safe around water and taking formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning, according to Witkus. All swim lessons and most summer camps at the MetroWest YMCA include this critical water safety training information.
“Getting more neighbors and friends into swim lessons to learn these critical skills is a high priority for us as we work to provide everyone the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive,” said Witkus. “That’s why the MetroWest YMCA offers lessons for all ages—starting as young as six months through adult-focused environments—and believes financial concerns should never be a barrier to water safety.”
Supported by generous donations to its annual campaign, the MetroWest YMCA ensures access to swim lessons for all through sliding-scale fees.
“Learning to swim is a lifelong skill, both for safety and for staying healthy,” said MetroWest YMCA COO Jeanne Sherlock. “Our caring, trained instructors teach kids and adults swim and safety skills, all while finding joy in and around the water.”
To learn more about the MetroWest YMCA’s swim program, water safety tips, summer camps, and to take the Phones Down, Eyes Up pledge, visit metrowestymca.org/water-safety-ymca.
About the MetroWest YMCA:
The MetroWest YMCA is a cause-driven nonprofit dedicated to creating healthier, connected communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The MetroWest YMCA provides inclusive programming that strengthens the body, mind, and spirit of more than 25,000 community members annually at every stage of life—including early learning and childcare, before- and after-school programs, summer camps, fitness and wellness classes, aquatics, sports, enrichment activities, and health intervention programs. Eliminating financial barriers to engagement, the MetroWest YMCA (EIN 04-2281530) ensures everyone in the community has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive. Visit metrowestymca.org for more information.