The YMCA of the Sandhills is proud to participate in the YMCA of the USA’s national Phones Down, Eyes Up™ campaign this May in honor of National Water Safety Month and as a vital reminder to parents and caregivers as summer kicks off.

The campaign is focused on reducing distractions around water and raising awareness about the importance of vigilance when families visit pools and waterfronts this summer. Statistics from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance show that 88% of drownings occur with at least one adult present, highlighting the critical need for caregivers to stay alert when supervising children around water.

The Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign encourages families to keep their phones away and stay focused while supervising children at pools, lakes, beaches, or other bodies of water.

"The YMCA of the Sandhills is proud to be part of this important national campaign," said Jeff Darling, CEO. “People think they’ll hear someone if they’re struggling in the water, because that’s what we see in tv and movies. In actuality, drowning is silent and can happen in as little as 30 seconds,” Darling said. “When we’re looking at our phones, we don’t see what’s happening around us,” Darling added.

As families head to pools, lakes and beaches to celebrate Memorial Day weekend and the kickoff to summer, the Y urges families to take the Phones Down, Eyes Up pledge and to designate a "Water Watcher"—an adult whose sole responsibility is to supervise children near water, free from distractions like phones, conversations, or alcohol. When you take the pledge, you have access to a Phones Down, Eyes Up lock screen to download for your phone as a great visual reminder when watching kid near or around water, plus access to monthly safety tips and downloadable Water Watcher lanyards.

"We know how easily distractions can happen around water, but just one moment of inattention can have serious consequences. We’re committed to empowering families with the tools and information they need to stay safe around water,” said Shaina Miller, Aquatics Director at the Y. “We teach about safety around water in our lessons all year long, but National Water Safety Month is the perfect time for our community to prioritize safety with the Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign.”

Visit the YMCA of the Sandhills website, https://ymcaofthesandhills.org/swimming/water-safety for information and a link to the pledge and Water Watcher materials.