TRENTON, N.J. - s4story -- Every year, there are an estimated 4,000 fatal unintentional drownings and 8,000 nonfatal drownings in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

But drowning is preventable, and New Jersey's Water Safety Strategy aims to reduce drowning incidents 30 percent by 2030. The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance, which represents 30 YMCA associations and 82 branches across the state, is committed to making this goal a reality by empowering children with essential water safety skills.

"The YMCA is an expert in teaching safety around water, providing education and hands-on practice to children across the state," said President and CEO of the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance Julie Gallanty. "Since May is National Water Safety Month, it's the ideal time to raise awareness and share life-saving information."

A Deeper Dive: Water Safety Statistics

The CDC states that more children ages 1 to 4 die from drowning than any other cause of death. Among children ages 5 to 14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death.

A survey conducted by the Y discovered that nine in ten U.S. parents see swimming as a key life skill for children, but other findings reveal an accessibility gap:

• One in two U.S. parents believe water safety classes are expensive
• Three in ten U.S. parents state water safety isn't a priority due to affordability concerns.

A Wave of Impact: Accessible and Affordable Water Safety

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The YMCA Alliance is committed to making a measurable difference when it comes to improving drowning statistics in New Jersey.

"More often than not, an adult is present during a drowning incident," Gallanty said. "We empower more than 10,000 youth per month, teaching them how to respect the water so they can be safe while still having fun."

The YMCA Alliance also makes water safety accessible and affordable, with 82 YMCA pools in the Garden State. Financial assistance to families in need ensures all children are afforded the opportunity to take advantage of YMCA water safety programs.

Summer Packing List: 5 Water Safety Tips

In recognition of Water Safety Month, families are encouraged to review the following tips for a fun and safe summer.

• Never swim alone: Always swim with a friend. Choose sites protected by a lifeguard.
• Take swim lessons: Professional swim lessons teach children how to swim and how to be safe around water. Find your local Y here and sign up today.
• Learn CPR: Sign up for a training class through the Y and organizations like the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
• Actively supervise children: 88 percent of children drown with at least one adult parent. Make the Phones Down, Eyes UpTM pledge.
• Fully enclose pools: A physical barrier helps prevent unsupervised access. The fence should be at least four feet high with a self-closing latch.

Jump Into Water Safety Today

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"Safety around water is important all year long, not just during Water Safety Month," said Gallanty. "I encourage everyone to take advantage of NJ YMCAs' expert resources and join us in empowering our children to keep themselves safe in the pool, at the beach and even in the bathtub. Together, we can change the statistics, one child at a time."

For more information on YMCA water safety programs, visit the YMCA Alliance website at www.njymca.org.

About the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance
The YMCA Alliance is a statewide nonprofit organization leading a coalition of 30 independent YMCA associations. Through public policy, statewide initiatives, strategic partnerships, and service delivery, the YMCA Alliance fosters a greater ability for YMCAs, community partners and leaders across the state to impact families, improve community health and advance equity. Our collective voice strengthens local communities while promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For more information, visit www.njymca.org.