300 learn water safety skills

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DARKE COUNTY — The 2017 “Safety Around Water” program at the Darke County YMCA had 300 participants at its Greenville and Versailles locations.

This year’s program, titled “Swim Safely with Moana,” was sponsored by The Daily Advocate, the Wayne Healthcare Foundation, The Versailles Policy, Alvetro Orthodontics, and the Greenville Rotary Club.

The Versailles YMCA branch held its classes May 30- June 1. Greenville’s classes were June 19-21.

Participants (and often, their parents) learned safety around water and survival skills, including: boat/canoe safety; What do to if you’re in the water and get too tired or are in trouble; float, back kick, etc.; basic swim lesson skills like stream lining, front crawl, floating on their back; Things like always asking an adult before getting in any form of water; rescue skills and when and when not to use them; sun protection/outdoor water hazards compared to indoor hazards; and inclement weather procedures.

“We have done this program for a little over 20 years, but it has grown significantly the last few years,” said Tyler Roberts, program director at Darke County YMCA.

Sessions were held for school age children grades K-6 and preschool kids ages 3 to 5. There was no fee to participate.

Some participants expressed their appreciation to the Y for staging the program.

“Thank you! What a great class! Logan loved it!” said Dawn Shepherd.

“He loves to be in water! Thanks for all you did for all the kids!” Karen Duncan said.

The YMCA is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For more about the YMCA’s offerings in Darke County, go online to www.ymcadarkecounty.org.

Little swimmers at the Versailles YMCA splash water. The Versailles and Greenville branches of the YMCA completed another successful “Safety Around Water” program, which saw 300 participants.
https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_VersaillesSAW1-PRINT.jpgLittle swimmers at the Versailles YMCA splash water. The Versailles and Greenville branches of the YMCA completed another successful “Safety Around Water” program, which saw 300 participants. Courtesy photo

By Erik Martin

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The writer may be reached at 937-569-4314. Join the conversation and get updates on Facebook search Darke County Sports or Advocate 360. For more features online go to dailyadvocate.com

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