The YMCA of Dane County is partnering with Reach Dane to deliver its nationally recognized Safety Around Water (SAW) program to 100 local children at no cost. SAW is an eight-week program that teaches life-saving water safety skills to help prevent drownings.
The program centers on helping children adjust to being in the water, teaching what to do if an individual unexpectedly ends up in the water, explaining what to do if someone is in the water and needs help, and reinforcing skills through fun activities
“Our goal with SAW is ensuring that kids and families in our community have fun and stay safe by becoming ‘water-ready’. Every child deserves the chance to feel confident in and around water,” said YMCA of Dane County President & CEO Mark Westover in a press release. “This program teaches critical skills and builds the awareness and responsibility that can help prevent accidents and save lives.”
The free Safety Around Water program is currently in progress at all three YMCA of Dane County branches including East Madison, West Madison and Sun Prairie.
“The SAW program is incredibly important to the Reach Dane families. It gives children the chance to learn vital skills that promote safety, build confidence and encourage healthy habits, all in a fun and supportive environment,” said Paola Moya, Reach Dane family outreach supervisor. “For many families, this program is an opportunity they simply couldn’t afford otherwise. Thanks to SAW, these children not only learn water-safety skills, but also get hope and a sense of belonging that lasts far beyond the pool.”
