EVERYBODY DESERVES TO BE SAFE IN THE WATER
At the Southeast Ventura County YMCA, we believe teaching children how to be safe around water is more than just a valuable life skill—it is a critical necessity. Our Safety Around Water (SAW) program is a specifically designed course that teaches skills and knowledge about water safety and being safe around water. This includes drowning prevention, floating techniques and mindful practices when around bodies of water to keep you and others safe.
In an area with easy access to pools, beaches and open water, drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death for young children. This initiative directly addresses that vulnerability, equipping children with essential skills that build confidence and reduce risk. Ultimately, SAW empowers kids to safely explore their surroundings while giving parents peace of mind. This program is at the very heart of our mission to build relationships, impact lives and strengthen community.
YMCA-certified instructors teach all swim classes.
Contact Information
Yarrow Family YMCA | Simi Valley Family YMCA |
COMMUNITY ENROLLMENT
Yarrow Family YMCA
12 classes per sessions
Open to youth and adults ages 5 and older
Monday: 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Wednesday: 5:30pm - 6:00pm
All children and adults need to apply for the program. Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
3rd GRADE PROGRAM
In partnership with Simi Valley Unified School District.
Open to third graders, whether it is their first time swimming or a chance to reinforce their existing skills.
4 Days of Instruction per student
45-minute In-water session
45-minute out-of-water session
Round-trip bus transportation
Swimsuit, towel and swim bag provided
HELP SAVE LIVES Support this no-cost program
PROGRAM SPONSORS
IN THE NEWS
Making a splash! Keeping kids safe around water.
California Coast News KCLU
CBS News Los Angeles highlights the Simi Valley Family YMCA and Yarrow Family YMCA Safety Around Water program.
STAY ALERT
88% of children drown with at least 1 adult present
SWIM SAFE
Leading cause of unintentional injury death in children ages 1-14.
SAVE LIVES
800+ children drown in the U.S. every year.
SAFER KIDS
70% of drowning are preventable with swim education.
Important Program Information
SAW is a focused program that teaches essential water safety skills, including:
- How to behave in and around water
- How to stay safe if falling in unexpectedly
- What to do if you see someone else in trouble
If you answer no to any of these questions, then Safety Around Water is right for you or your child.
- Can you or your child jump into the water and safely exit without assistance?
- Have you or your child ever taken a swim lesson?
If you answered 'no' to any of these questions, then Safety Around Water is the perfect opportunity to build essential water safety skills and gain confidence in the water.
No. The goal is to reduce risk, not create "drown-proof" children. Constant, active supervision by a designated "Water Watcher" is always necessary.
Participants in the SAW program will learn
- Jump, Push, Turn, Grab: Jumping in, turning around, and grabbing the wall.
- Swim, Float, Swim: Swimming on the front, rolling on the back to rest/breathe, and swimming again.
- Asking Permission: Always ask an adult before entering the water.
No. The program is designed for beginners and children who have never been in a pool before.
This is a no-cost program for those that apply and are accepted into the program.
No, the SAW programs are open to the community, although pre-registration is required and spaces are limited.
Participants should bring a swimsuit and a towel.